Gaza medical evacuation restrictions

The Gaza Ministry of Health has reported ongoing and severe restrictions regarding the medical evacuation of patients from the Gaza Strip to neighboring countries.

In September 2026, authorities reported that Israel significantly limited the number of Palestinian patients and companions permitted to travel to Egypt for treatment. After initial authorizations were reduced and some individuals were ordered to return during departure, only 61 people were allowed to leave. The Gaza Ministry of Health responded with a “collective protest,” choosing to only dispatch patients in critical condition via ambulance. The ministry called on international bodies, including the World Health Organization, to pressure Israel to end these restrictions, noting that mortality rates have increased due to the destruction of medical infrastructure.

By October 2026, restrictions continued to impact specialized care, particularly for children. Reports indicated that only five patients and five companions were permitted to travel to Jordan via the Karem Abu Salem crossing, out of a group of 75 children scheduled for treatment. As of this period, approximately 21,000 patients and wounded individuals remain awaiting medical evacuation. These humanitarian challenges persist even as a mediated ceasefire agreement enters its second year amid reports of field violations.