Gaza – The Palestinian Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip issued a dire warning. Remaining operational hospitals have effectively become forced waiting stations. They serve thousands of patients and injured individuals. These hospitals suffer from an almost complete inability to provide healthcare. An unknown health fate threatens the lives of the most vulnerable groups.
The Ministry issued a press statement today, Saturday. It stated that the effects of what it called “health genocide” have created a catastrophic reality. Continuing to provide medical services is like a daily miracle. It poses an extremely serious challenge to efforts for recovery. It also impedes the restoration of specialized services. These services have been disrupted by war and siege.
The Ministry explained that the severe shortage of medicines and medical consumables has reached unprecedented levels. Even the simplest painkillers are no longer available for patients and the injured. These individuals face death at every moment. 46% of essential medicines have zero stock. 66% of medical consumables have completely run out. Additionally, 84% of laboratory materials and blood bank supplies are depleted.
The Ministry affirmed that cancer and blood disease treatments are severely affected. Surgery, operations, and intensive care services are also among the most damaged sectors. This includes primary healthcare. This situation exacerbates patient suffering. It warns of a complete collapse of the health system.
The Ministry added that limited medicine quantities reaching hospitals do not meet minimum actual needs. These are essential for ensuring the continuity of basic health services. It warned that relying on temporary emergency solutions will not save the health situation. Instead, it will lead to the accumulation of serious long-term consequences.
The Palestinian Ministry of Health reiterated its urgent and immediate appeal to all relevant parties. This includes regional and international entities. They call for swift intervention. They also ask for increased stocks of medicines and medical supplies. The Ministry emphasized that any further delay means losing more lives. The sector faces one of the worst health disasters in its history.