The Palestinian Ministry of Health has announced that the situation in Gaza has become increasingly tragic, with between 6 to 10 patients dying daily due to the strict restrictions imposed by Israel on medical evacuations. Zaher Al-Wahidi, the director of the ministry's information department, noted that fewer than 500 patients were evacuated during February, a number he considers "extremely low." Additionally, there are at least 195 cases classified as critical, requiring urgent evacuation.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Health continues to warn that there are approximately 1,971 medical emergencies needing evacuation within the next few weeks; otherwise, these cases may become critical. Among these patients, there are 4,000 children and an equal number of cancer patients who require urgent treatment.
Details of the Event
The medical evacuation process from Gaza has long posed a significant challenge for many Palestinians due to the blockade imposed by Israel on the territory. With the onset of the Israeli aggression on Gaza in May 2024, these restrictions have noticeably increased, particularly following the Israeli forces' takeover of the Rafah crossing, the only passage for civilians and goods that does not go through Israel.
The Rafah crossing, located on Gaza's southern border with Egypt, is a vital gateway for both sides and has been closed since the Israeli forces seized it in May 2024. The United Nations and humanitarian organizations have emphasized the necessity of reopening it, especially after the ceasefire agreement reached on October 10 included the reopening of the Rafah crossing; however, reality tells a different story.
Background & Context
In early February, the crossing was partially reopened from both sides for the first time in two years, following its destruction by Israeli forces. Under the new arrangement, a schedule was set allowing 50 Palestinians to enter Gaza from Egypt daily, while approximately 150 Palestinians could leave the territory. However, many patients and their escorts were prevented from leaving Gaza.
Only 490 patients were evacuated in February, which contradicts the increasing needs expressed by health officials, who indicated that 400 patients need to be evacuated daily to meet the rising demands.
Impact & Consequences
The restrictions on medical evacuations have further intensified recently, especially amid escalating Israeli-American tensions in Iran, leading to the closure of the crossing on February 28. Although operations resumed last week, the total number of patients evacuated has not exceeded 24 since the reopening of the crossing on March 19.
Patients face numerous challenges, including complications related to lengthy travel procedures and obstacles imposed by Israeli forces, alongside the side effects associated with the conflict with Iran. Al-Wahidi confirmed that more than 1,400 patients out of 20,000 who need treatment have died as a result of the Israeli blockade since May 7, 2024.
Regional Significance
Concerns are growing regarding the safety of patients in the Gaza Strip, as these figures indicate an escalating humanitarian crisis threatening the stability of the region. The ongoing blockade and restrictions on freedom of movement are a matter of significant international concern and may prompt the international community to reassess its policies towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In conclusion, hope remains pinned on the international community to pressure for the opening of crossings and to ensure the rights of Palestinians to receive necessary treatment and healthcare.