Spokesperson for the Palestinian Red Crescent, Nibal Farsakh, reported today, Tuesday, that over one million cases of infectious diseases have been recorded in the Gaza Strip, particularly hepatitis. Farsakh also warned of the spread of other diseases due to contaminated water in the region, stating, “We have concerns about the spread of cholera due to contaminated water in the Gaza Strip.”
The Palestinian Red Crescent Society highlighted several issues:
* Humanitarian suffering is worsening due to the ongoing closure of the Rafah border crossing.
* The occupation targets civilians in Gaza even during Eid al-Adha.
* We are witnessing a deterioration in the healthcare system due to the Rafah crossing closure and the shortage of medical supplies.
* The closure of the Rafah crossing prevents the evacuation of the injured for treatment outside Gaza.
* We have recorded over one million cases of infectious diseases, particularly hepatitis.
* We have concerns about the spread of cholera due to contaminated water.
* Solid waste is piling up among the tents of the displaced in Gaza, creating catastrophic environmental conditions.
The Palestinian Red Crescent warned, “We caution that things could spiral out of control amidst the collapse of the healthcare system and the spread of diseases,” adding that Gaza residents are suffering from food insecurity due to the starvation policy.
The World Health Organization (WHO) last week warned of the worsening health crisis in the West Bank, where strict restrictions, violence, and attacks on medical facilities complicate access to care. The UN agency called for “immediate and effective protection for civilians and the health system in the West Bank.”
