Humanitarian Crisis in Northern Gaza
The Civil Defense in the Gaza Strip has reported a dire situation in the northern region, stating that over 100,000 Palestinians are trapped without access to food or medicine. Major Mahmoud Basal, the spokesperson for Civil Defense, highlighted that more than 60% of those affected are women and children. He expressed grave concerns over the lack of medical treatment available in the area, criticizing global inaction amid the ongoing violence. The humanitarian crisis has worsened since the onset of Israeli airstrikes on October 5, 2023, which targeted Jabalia camp and surrounding areas under the justification of countering Hamas. This escalation has led to significant casualties and a complete halt of civil defense operations due to direct attacks on their personnel and resources.
Call for International Aid
The Palestinian Ministry of Health has urgently appealed to international organizations for medical assistance, emphasizing the need for surgical teams and ambulances to aid the wounded. The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 144,000 casualties among Palestinians, including a significant number of children and women, alongside 10,000 individuals reported missing. The situation has been described as one of the worst humanitarian disasters globally, with hospitals in northern Gaza rendered inoperative and civil defense services suspended. The international community's response remains crucial as the region faces unprecedented levels of violence and humanitarian needs.