Gaza health officials warn of medical evacuation delays and hospital risks

The Palestinian Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip has reported that the continued closure of the Rafah crossing is preventing dozens of critically ill and wounded patients from being evacuated. The ministry stated that the closure disrupts weekly medical evacuation schedules for patients who have already secured necessary security and medical clearances, threatening the lives of those suffering from cancer, kidney failure, and severe injuries.

Simultaneously, the Ministry of Health has denied allegations made by the Israeli military claiming that Hamas uses hospitals and medical facilities for military purposes. The ministry described these claims as ‘false and misleading,’ warning that such rhetoric serves as a pretext to justify continued targeting of the remaining healthcare infrastructure in the Gaza Strip. The ministry noted that the healthcare system is facing a systematic crisis, with most facilities either destroyed or partially non-functional due to the ongoing conflict.