The Palestinian Network of NGOs for the Rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities announced on Saturday that the ongoing conflict has resulted in approximately 10,000 individuals becoming disabled in the Gaza Strip.
According to data released by the Palestinian news agency WAFA, hundreds of disabled individuals in Gaza have been killed, thousands injured, and tens of thousands displaced, facing harsh conditions and severe psychological trauma.
The report highlights the dire consequences of the conflict, particularly for those with disabilities.
The network emphasized that the destruction of infrastructure, main roads, and rehabilitation centers by the Israeli military has severely limited mobility and access to essential services for disabled individuals.
This destruction has significantly hindered their ability to evacuate and seek safety, putting their lives at great risk. Many have also lost their assistive devices, further exacerbating their vulnerability.
The report detailed the critical shortages faced by disabled individuals, including water, food, energy, medication, and medical and rehabilitation treatment.
The overcrowded and inadequately equipped shelters pose additional challenges, making it extremely difficult for disabled individuals to access humanitarian aid and necessary facilities such as bathrooms.
Gaza has borne an unprecedented human toll due to the ongoing conflict with Israel, which has persisted for over eight months. On Saturday, the Ministry of Health in Gaza announced that the death toll has reached 37,834.
The ministry’s statement noted that at least 69 people were killed in the past 48 hours alone, bringing the total number of injured since the conflict began to 86,858.
The statement also mentioned that many victims remain trapped under rubble and in inaccessible areas, beyond the reach of rescue teams and civil defense units.
The prolonged conflict has led to a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with disabled individuals among the most affected.
The international community is urged to address the urgent needs of these vulnerable populations and support efforts to restore infrastructure and provide essential services.
