Desperate Situation at Gaza Hospitals Sparks International Outcry

International Outcry Grows Over Desperate Situation at Gaza Hospitals

November 12, 2023

The international community is expressing increasing concern over the desperate situation at Gaza hospitals, particularly Al-Shifa Hospital, as the Israeli military continues its battle with Hamas fighters. The outcry comes as a result of the unbearable conditions and lack of essential resources at Al-Shifa Hospital, which has prompted international organizations to shed light on the dangerous situation faced by dozens of infants.

Doctors Without Borders has released a voice memo from Dr. Mohammed Obeid, a physician at Al-Shifa Hospital, revealing the dire circumstances. The memo highlights the deaths of two newborn patients due to the lack of electricity for incubators and emphasizes the urgent need for assistance.

Responding to the growing concerns, an Israeli military spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner, announced on Sunday that the military is prepared to support the evacuation of newborns from Al-Shifa Hospital. However, the fuel shortage affecting the incubators is just one aspect of the severe situation at the hospital.

Al-Shifa Hospital is currently treating 600 patients, but it is facing shortages of essential supplies such as water and food. The International Committee of the Red Cross has called for immediate action to address the critical situation at the hospital, while the United Nations’ envoy for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, has condemned the war actions targeting medical facilities and criticized the Israeli military’s refusal to allow fuel into Gaza, exacerbating the crisis.

Meanwhile, Al-Quds Hospital in Gaza City is also facing operational challenges due to fuel shortages and power outages. The hospital, operated by the Palestinian Red Crescent, has reported that hundreds of patients are unable to receive the necessary treatment, leaving them trapped and in need of urgent assistance.

Israeli authorities have demanded the evacuation of hospitals, accusing Hamas of using them as human shields. However, residents who have successfully evacuated are still under the threat of Israeli airstrikes in southern Gaza, as they seek shelter in inadequate facilities provided by the United Nations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear that there will be no ceasefire until all hostages held in Gaza are released. He opposes the US plan to establish a Palestinian government in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, further complicating the prospects for peace in the region.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in significant loss of life, with over 11,000 deaths reported by the Palestinian Ministry of Health since the Israeli military operation began on October 7th. Immediate international support is crucial to alleviate the suffering of patients and ensure their safety in Gaza hospitals.