A report by Save the Children International confirmed that the rate of monthly attacks on healthcare facilities in Gaza since the beginning of the Israeli occupation forces’ aggression is higher than any recent conflict globally, averaging 73 attacks per month. The report noted that, as of early April 2024, at least 435 attacks on healthcare facilities or workers in Gaza have occurred during the six months of conflict from October 7, 2023, which is equivalent to 73 attacks per month according to the World Health Organization. This number exceeds the monthly number of attacks in all other war-torn countries since 2018, including Ukraine with the second highest at 67 attacks per month, and the Democratic Republic of Congo at an average of 11 attacks per month.
The report also stated that attacks on healthcare were not limited to Gaza in the occupied Palestinian territories, as 369 attacks were also reported in the occupied West Bank over the past six months. These include 302 obstructions to access healthcare services and the use of force within health facilities.
According to the report, the World Health Organization categorizes an attack on healthcare as any act of violence against healthcare services or any obstacles that interfere with their delivery or accessibility during emergencies, including psychological threats and intimidation of patients and workers.
The report also highlighted that six months of continuous bombing, blockade, and obstruction of aid delivery have led to the destruction of Gaza’s healthcare system. It mentioned that only 11 out of 36 hospitals are partially operational. The Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics reported that approximately 350,000 people in Gaza suffering from chronic diseases are unable to access medications, supplies, and vital services.
The recent developments in Gaza since the war began on October 7, 2023, have been severe and deeply concerning. The conflict, which was triggered by a large-scale attack by Hamas on southern Israel, resulting in significant casualties and abductions, has led to extensive military responses from Israel. As of early 2024, the situation has been marked by high casualties, widespread destruction, and a significant humanitarian crisis.
The conflict has resulted in over 30,000 Palestinian deaths and extensive destruction throughout Gaza, severely impacting the healthcare system and infrastructure. A humanitarian crisis has escalated, with the Gaza Strip experiencing shortages of food, water, electricity, and medical supplies. Over 90% of the population faces crisis levels of food insecurity.
International responses have included aid drops and urgent appeals from global humanitarian leaders to alleviate the suffering in Gaza. However, these efforts face significant challenges due to ongoing violence and restrictions on aid delivery.
