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Why is Gaza's healthcare system collapsing now?
Gaza's healthcare system is collapsing due to a combination of ongoing conflict, infrastructure damage, and a blockade that restricts medical supplies. Since October 2023, Israeli attacks have damaged over 125 health facilities, and shortages of medicines, equipment, and staff have worsened. The blockade prevents essential supplies from entering, leaving hospitals unable to treat patients effectively.
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What are the main shortages hospitals are facing?
Hospitals in Gaza are facing severe shortages of medicines, surgical supplies, and medical equipment. Power outages and damaged infrastructure further hinder medical care. Many hospitals lack basic necessities like clean water, oxygen, and sterilization tools, making it difficult to provide safe and effective treatment.
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How are civilians affected by the aid blockade?
Civilians in Gaza are deeply affected by the aid blockade, which limits access to vital medical supplies and humanitarian assistance. Thousands of patients remain stranded outside Gaza, waiting for evacuation or treatment. The blockade also hampers the delivery of food, water, and medicines, increasing the risk of death, disability, and disease among the population.
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What efforts are being made to help Gaza's health crisis?
International organizations like the WHO are working to evacuate patients and deliver medical supplies. Over 10,600 patients have been evacuated since the conflict began, but many still wait for help. Humanitarian aid is slowly reaching Gaza, but political obstacles and ongoing hostilities continue to hinder large-scale assistance and medical evacuations.
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What is the current state of Gaza’s hospitals?
Gaza’s hospitals are in a dire state, with many damaged or destroyed. The remaining facilities are overwhelmed, under-resourced, and struggling to provide care. The destruction of key hospitals, like Gaza’s Eye Hospital, has left thousands at risk of permanent disability or blindness. The overall health infrastructure is near collapse, worsening the humanitarian crisis.
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How can the international community help Gaza’s health crisis?
The international community can support Gaza by increasing humanitarian aid, facilitating medical evacuations, and pressuring for a ceasefire to allow safe delivery of supplies. Providing funding for rebuilding health infrastructure and protecting medical workers are also crucial steps to address the ongoing crisis.