Gaza European Hospital in Khan Younis, one of the few remaining operational hospitals in the Gaza Strip, has been forced to shut down after its generators ran out of fuel, according to medical sources early Wednesday.
The Palestinian news agency reported that the power outage at Gaza European Hospital poses a severe threat to the lives of hundreds of injured and sick patients relying on the facility for critical care.
The hospital’s generators, crucial for maintaining operations amidst Gaza’s frequent power shortages, stopped functioning due to a lack of fuel.
This shutdown occurs as Israeli artillery continues intense shelling on the neighborhoods of Al-Salam and Al-Jenina in the east of Rafah and around Tal Al-Zaatar in Jabalia camp in the northern Gaza Strip.
The ongoing conflict exacerbates the already dire humanitarian situation, placing immense pressure on the healthcare system in Gaza.
The Gaza Strip has long struggled with a crippling power crisis, exacerbated by the blockade imposed by Israel and Egypt since 2007, following Hamas’ takeover of the territory.
The blockade has severely restricted the import of fuel, medical supplies, and other essential goods.
Hospitals in Gaza often rely on backup generators due to the unreliable electricity supply, which is typically limited to a few hours a day.
The fuel shortages for these generators result in frequent power outages, jeopardizing the health and lives of patients needing continuous medical support.
The ongoing conflict between Israeli forces and Palestinian groups has further strained Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure. Israeli airstrikes and artillery shelling have caused widespread destruction, with many healthcare facilities damaged or destroyed.
The inability to access essential medical supplies and fuel has compounded the challenges faced by healthcare providers in the region.
International humanitarian organizations have repeatedly called for the lifting of the blockade and the establishment of secure humanitarian corridors to allow for the delivery of critical aid.
