Gaza Faces a Disability Pandemic Amid Ongoing Conflict
The Gaza Strip is grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis, marked by an alarming rise in the number of amputee children, which has led to what local and UN officials are calling a "disability pandemic." Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), reported that one in four individuals injured in the ongoing conflict requires rehabilitation services, including critical care following amputations and spinal injuries. According to the World Health Organization, Gaza now holds the highest percentage of children with amputated limbs globally, with many undergoing surgeries without anesthesia due to the dire medical conditions.
The situation is exacerbated by a significant shortage of medical supplies and humanitarian aid, as hospitals struggle to cope with the influx of patients suffering from severe injuries, malnutrition, and dehydration. Marwan Al-Hamas, Director of Field Hospitals at the Gaza Ministry of Health, emphasized that the lack of resources has rendered hospitals nearly incapable of providing necessary care, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
Humanitarian Aid Blocked and Medical Personnel Targeted
The ongoing conflict has not only led to a humanitarian crisis but has also seen the deliberate targeting of medical staff and facilities by the Israeli military. Mahmoud Basal, spokesman for the Civil Defense in Gaza, highlighted the atrocities committed in the northern region, where medical crews and civil defense teams have been attacked while performing their duties. Since October 7, 2023, the Israeli army has reportedly targeted civil defense personnel 18 times, resulting in the deaths of 88 crew members and injuries to over 300 others.
UNRWA has announced a suspension of aid delivery through the Kerem Shalom crossing, the main route for humanitarian assistance into Gaza, citing the need for improved conditions to facilitate aid entry. The agency has warned of impending famine as the situation continues to deteriorate, with calls for international support to address the urgent needs of the population.
