Gaza City: The International Red Cross has issued a warning that medical facilities in Gaza are under “extreme pressure” due to recent Israeli strikes, as reported today. In conjunction, the World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed a shortage of essential medicines within the enclave.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency – WAFA, Tommaso Della Longa, the spokesman for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, stated that colleagues from the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) have observed that various medical facilities are overwhelmed across Gaza. Della Longa highlighted that these facilities are grappling not only with a surge in patient numbers but also with the stress on their diminishing medical supplies.
“There are shortages of food, supplies, and fuel,” Della Longa noted, emphasizing the impact of fuel shortages on ambulances and the ability of first responders to reach those in urgent need. He further mentioned the scarcity of medical equipment and medicines, which complicates the provision of vital treatment.
WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic expressed concerns over the depleting stocks of medicine. “Unfortunately, because of this shortage of medicines, there is a risk of health workers not being able to provide treatment for different medical conditions, not only for trauma injuries,” he explained. Jasarevic also revealed that WHO has 16 trucks loaded with medical supplies ready to enter Gaza, contingent upon securing ceasefire and access.
Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported a significant influx of wounded individuals at its facilities, including a field hospital, clinic, and Nasser Hospital. Mohammed Abu Mughaisib, the deputy medical coordinator in southern Gaza for MSF, described the injuries as “extremely severe,” ranging from amputations to complex orthopedic cases and burns. He pointed out the inability of hospitals to manage the overwhelming number of casualties.
Claire Nicolet, head of MSF’s emergency department currently in Gaza, recounted the terrifying experience of bombs falling everywhere for 20 minutes, underscoring the dire situation in the region.