Even ambulances were not spared from the violent and continuous Israeli occupation bombing of the Gaza Strip, leading to a catastrophic humanitarian crisis. Since the onset of hostilities on October 7, approximately 1,000 health workers have lost their lives, with many more arrested, according to Palestinian Minister of Health, Majed Abu Ramadan. The recent bombing of ministry warehouses in Rafah resulted in the deaths of five employees, highlighting the targeted aggression against medical personnel and facilities in the region.
The Palestinian Minister reported that the ongoing Israeli aggression has claimed the lives of more than 990 health professionals, including doctors, nurses, and paramedics, while over 300 staff members have been detained. The bombardment has also incapacitated 130 ambulances, severely disrupting the already strained healthcare system in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Abu Ramadan condemned these actions as blatant violations of international humanitarian laws, calling for immediate intervention from global health organizations and the international community.
The military operations have not only devastated the health sector but have also resulted in significant civilian casualties, with over 137,000 Palestinians reported dead or wounded, many of whom are women and children. The destruction of hospitals and medical facilities has placed the lives of countless patients and health workers at risk, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Despite international calls for a ceasefire, Israel continues its offensive, disregarding UN resolutions aimed at protecting civilians and preventing further loss of life.