A new report from Doctors Without Borders has highlighted the severe deterioration of healthcare in the Gaza Strip, which has been exacerbated by continuous attacks from the occupying forces and a suffocating blockade that has now lasted 14 months.

The report, titled “Gaza: Living in a Death Trap,” reveals that the healthcare system in Gaza is in a state of total collapse, with fewer than half of the region’s 36 hospitals functioning, and most only partially operational.

Doctors Without Borders staff endured 41 attacks in the past year, including airstrikes, making it incredibly difficult to provide essential healthcare. The report also noted that the organisation’s supported health facilities carried out over 27,500 consultations related to violence and more than 7,500 surgeries, underscoring the dramatic rise in injuries and diseases.

The occupation has displaced approximately 1.9 million people from northern Gaza, further worsening health conditions as many now live in overcrowded and unsanitary environments that promote the spread of disease. The report highlighted the suffering of children, with a shortage of essential vaccinations increasing the risk of diseases like measles and polio. Additionally, cases of malnutrition have surged.

Doctors Without Borders called for an immediate ceasefire to allow the delivery of humanitarian aid and to ensure Palestinians’ right to healthcare. The organisation warned that the ongoing situation would have long-term consequences for public health, with the injured needing years of rehabilitation. The report stressed that urgent action from the international community is necessary to provide the support and care required to save lives.

Since October 7, 2023, the Israeli occupation, with American support, has committed acts of genocide in Gaza, leading to at least 152 martyrs and tens of thousands of injuries, many of whom are children and women, as well as over 10,000 missing persons. This ongoing massacre, coupled with widespread famine, has led to the deaths of numerous children and elderly individuals, contributing to what is now one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world.

The occupation continues its actions despite calls from the United Nations Security Council to cease immediately and orders from the International Court of Justice to prevent acts of genocide and address the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.