Gaza healthcare system faces critical collapse amid medical shortages

The healthcare system in the Gaza Strip is facing a severe crisis characterized by a massive loss of infrastructure and rising mortality rates. According to Mohammed Abu Afash, Director of Medical Relief in Gaza, 2,027 patients have died while waiting for medical treatment or evacuation. Currently, more than 21,000 patients require medical evacuation, but movement through the Rafah crossing has been halted for over five days due to closed borders.

Medical facilities are struggling with acute shortages of diagnostic tools, laboratory services, X-rays, operating rooms, and essential medicines. The number of functional healthcare centers has dropped from 574 to just 227. This decline significantly impacts maternal care, pediatric nutrition, and vaccinations, raising concerns about long-term health consequences for children due to malnutrition and weakened immunity.

Simultaneously, tensions are rising regarding the safety of remaining medical facilities. Israeli media reports have alleged that Hamas uses medical sites for military purposes, a claim denied by health officials. Data from the Gaza Ministry of Health indicates that 19 hospitals are completely out of service, while 19 others are only partially functional. The sector has also seen the death of 1,723 health workers and the arrest of 362 others.