The ongoing Israeli blockade of Gaza’s crossings has pushed the Strip’s healthcare system to the brink of collapse, leaving thousands of patients in life-threatening conditions due to severe shortages of medical supplies and fuel. Marwan Al-Hams, Director of Field Hospitals at the Palestinian Ministry of Health, warned of the catastrophic consequences, citing a chronic lack of essential medicines, equipment, and diagnostic tools.  

“The failure to secure fuel for hospitals is devastating,” Al-Hams said. “Patients with serious injuries and chronic diseases are being left without treatment, putting their lives at immediate risk.”  

Israel has also failed to honour ceasefire agreements, which stipulated that 150 patients daily should be allowed to travel abroad for medical care. In reality, only 32 to 50 patients have been permitted to leave, and crossings have been entirely closed for days, delaying critical evacuations. “This delay has already resulted in the deaths of patients on waiting lists,” Al-Hams added.  

As the conflict enters its second year, the need for field hospitals and advanced medical equipment, such as MRI machines, has become urgent. Many hospitals lack these resources, severely limiting their ability to provide care.  

With Ramadan approaching, Gaza’s humanitarian crisis is worsening. Israel has blocked the entry of aid, food, and fuel for nine consecutive days, exacerbating shortages of basic necessities. Al-Hams called for international intervention to pressure Israel to lift the blockade and allow medical supplies into Gaza.  

“If the siege persists, we will witness the preventable deaths of many patients,” he warned. The crisis underscores the urgent need for global action to save lives and alleviate the suffering of Gaza’s civilians.