Gaza’s healthcare system is on the verge of collapse as major hospitals, including the vital European Hospital in Khan Younis, have been rendered inoperable following targeted attacks and systematic destruction. Dr. Mohamed Zaqout, director general of hospitals in Gaza, has issued a stark warning about the escalating crisis, with medical facilities unable to cope with the overwhelming influx of casualties from relentless Israeli airstrikes.  

The European Hospital, once a critical centre for cancer treatment with over 650 beds, has been left non-functional after deliberate strikes destroyed its water and sewage networks. Dr. Zaqout described the damage as catastrophic, stating that restoring operations is "impossible in the near future." With its destruction, Nasser Hospital remains the sole functioning government-run facility in southern Gaza, while all hospitals in the north have been forced out of service.  

Before the war, Gaza had 34 operational hospitals; now, fewer than ten remain, including small field hospitals. The number of available beds has plummeted from 3,800 to just 1,100, leaving medics struggling to treat hundreds of daily casualties. Critical shortages of medicines, ventilators, and imaging equipment—blocked by Israeli authorities—have further crippled healthcare services.  

In Gaza City, the devastation is even more severe. The once-iconic Shifa Medical Complex now operates with only 65 beds, while other key hospitals, including the Arab National Hospital and the Red Crescent Field Hospital, are completely out of action.  

Dr. Zaqout also highlighted the growing threat of disease and malnutrition due to Israel’s blockade, which has prevented essential food and medical aid from entering. With patients denied permits for treatment abroad since the last ceasefire, Gaza’s health crisis is spiralling into catastrophe.