In a Security Councilmeeting on Friday, Dr. Rik Peeperkorn, World Health Organization (WHO) representative for the West Bank and Gaza, expressed concerns about the current situation. More than a quarter of the 105,000 injured civilians are facing life-changing injuries.
Dr. Peeperkorn warned that without urgent action, it could take five to ten years to evacuate all critically ill patients. Over 12,000 people are still waiting for essential treatment abroad.
System at breaking point
Only 16 of the region’s 36 hospitals are partially operational, with a collective capacity of just over 1,800 beds. This is far from sufficient to meet the overwhelming medical needs of the population.
Dr. Peeperkorn highlighted the systematic dismantling of the health sector due to shortages of medical supplies, equipment, and personnel. With Kamal Adwan Hospital severely damaged and unable to operate, critical patients have been moved to the Indonesian Hospital, which also lacks essential supplies.
Al-Awda Hospital, the only functional hospital in North Gaza, struggles to provide basic care amidst dwindling resources and ongoing hostilities.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, described the destruction of hospitals as a “human rights catastrophe”. He raised concerns about targeted attacks on healthcare facilities leading to the killing and forced removal of patients and staff.
Health workers targeted
According to Dr. Tanya Haj-Hassan from the NGO Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP), healthcare professionals in Gaza are at risk every day. More than 1,000 healthcare workers have been killed since October 2023.
Despite the dangers, healthcare workers in Gaza continue their mission to save lives, showing dedication and bravery in the face of adversity.
Urgent action required
Dr. Peeperkorn and Mr. Türk called for increased humanitarian aid, expedited evacuations, and respect for international humanitarian law. Mr. Türk emphasized the importance of protecting hospitals during warfare to prevent further loss of life.
WHO has documented 654 attacks on healthcare facilities in Gaza since October 2023, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries. Each attack not only damages buildings but also disrupts lives and denies access to crucial care.
Despite the challenges, Gaza’s health system continues to operate. Dr. Peeperkorn noted the rebuilding of facilities like Al-Shifa and Nasser Medical Complex as signs of hope for the region’s resilience.
However, without a ceasefire and enhanced protection for health services, the future remains uncertain and concerning.
