WHO Urgently Evacuating Gaza’s al-Chifa Hospital: A Desperate Death Zone
The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched an urgent mission to evacuate al-Chifa hospital in Gaza, which has been described as a death zone due to the dire conditions caused by the Israeli occupation. Following their assessment of the situation, WHO experts found that the hospital still housed 25 caregivers and 291 patients, including critically ill infants, dialysis patients, and those in intensive care.
In a statement, the WHO described the hospital as a place of desperation, with the situation spiraling out of control. The lack of basic necessities such as water, food, electricity, and fuel has rendered the hospital unable to function properly. Medical supplies are depleted, leaving patients in a critical state.
Given the gravity of the situation and the deteriorating condition of many patients, the healthcare staff have requested assistance in evacuating those who can no longer receive vital care at the hospital. The WHO, along with its partners, is currently developing urgent plans for the evacuation of the remaining patients, staff, and their families.
The majority of patients still in the hospital are victims of complex fractures, amputations, burns, thoracic and abdominal trauma, and spinal injuries. The lack of antibiotics and poor hygiene conditions have also led to severe infections among the patients. Immediate evacuation is essential to prevent further deterioration of their health.
Several evacuation missions will be carried out in the coming days, with the aim of relocating the patients to Nasser Hospital and the European Hospital in Gaza. However, it is noted that these hospitals are already operating beyond their capacities.
The Israeli army claims that the al-Chifa hospital harbors a Hamas hideout, including a network of tunnels. However, the Islamist movement denies these allegations.
The dire circumstances at al-Chifa hospital in Gaza urgently call for international attention and support. Without swift action, the lives of the remaining patients hang in the balance. The WHO’s efforts, along with its partners, are crucial in providing the necessary aid and ensuring the safe evacuation of those in need. It is essential for the international community to rally together and address this pressing humanitarian crisis.