Gaza Hospitals Face Critical Supply Shortages Amid Ongoing Airstrikes

Hospitals in Gaza are facing severe shortages of essential medical supplies amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes that have resulted in over 50 deaths and more than 100 injuries in recent days. Medical professionals report dwindling stocks of gauze, antiseptics, thermometers, and antibiotics.

Mohammed Saqr, director of nursing at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, stated, "We are still suffering a severe lack of most of our supplies and medicines. We have daily crises, and the same shortages and deficiencies in supplies, and we are still exhausted as we are still receiving lots of casualties."

Despite the delivery of hundreds of tonnes of aid by humanitarian organizations since the U.S.-backed ceasefire last month, the availability of medicines and supplies remains insufficient. Joe Belliveau, executive director of MedGlobal, a U.S.-based NGO, noted, "There are staff shortages, not enough ambulances... The whole health system is still on its knees, with critical shortages across the board."

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that only 19 of Gaza's 36 hospitals remain operational, with many functioning at minimal capacity due to damage and resource constraints. WHO has documented 28 attacks on healthcare facilities in Gaza during the past week, contributing to the critical state of the health system.

Fuel shortages have further exacerbated the crisis, with hospitals relying on generators to maintain operations. The International Committee of the Red Cross warns that without adequate fuel, hospitals may become "morgues" as life-saving equipment ceases to function.

The ongoing conflict has also led to significant displacement, with many residents lacking access to basic necessities such as food, water, and shelter. The United Nations has called for an immediate and lasting ceasefire to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region.