A Brief Account of Forced Displacements and Infrastructure Damage in Gaza underscore the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities
Forced Displacement and Destruction Â
The ongoing escalation of Israeli occupation’s aggression has forced between 100,000 and 130,000 people to flee their homes in northern Gaza, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis. Across the Gaza Strip, relentless bombardments from air, land, and sea have led to widespread destruction of homes and civilian infrastructure, leaving families with nowhere to turn. Tragically, an estimated 85% of Gaza’s population—approximately 1.93 million individuals—have been forcibly displaced, seeking refuge in overcrowded shelters or open spaces without basic necessities. Forced Displacement and Health System Collapse in Gaza underscores the urgent need for international intervention to protect civilians.
Healthcare Under SiegeÂ
Access to healthcare in Gaza has been critically undermined by ongoing violence and restricted access. Medical personnel face immense challenges, including severe shortages of essential supplies like anesthesia and antibiotics, making life-saving treatments nearly impossible. Over 1,060 healthcare workers have been killed, more than 310 arrested, and hundreds injured. Additionally, 130 ambulances and numerous healthcare facilities have been destroyed. These deliberate attacks on medical infrastructure deprive civilians of basic healthcare services, further compounding the humanitarian disaster.
A Public Health CatastropheÂ
The public health crisis in Gaza is reaching catastrophic proportions, with overcrowded shelters, unsafe water, and inadequate hygiene facilities creating fertile ground for the spread of preventable diseases. Over 1.93 million people lack access to safe drinking water, leaving civilians vulnerable to dehydration and waterborne illnesses. Sewage overflows and waste accumulation in streets and shelters add to the unsanitary conditions, significantly increasing public health risks. The dire need for clean water, proper sanitation, and urgent medical interventions cannot be overstated as civilians face life-threatening health challenges.
Infrastructure Devastation and Urgent Needs
Gaza’s infrastructure is on the brink of collapse, further intensifying the humanitarian crisis. The destruction of energy supplies has paralyzed essential services, including hospitals, water treatment plants, and sanitation systems. In the West Bank, over 700 attacks on healthcare facilities since October 7, 2023, highlight the widespread impact of Israeli aggression. With over 835 Palestinians killed, including 172 children, and thousands injured, the lack of medical supplies and restricted movement of aid make the situation even more critical. Immediate international support is necessary to restore functionality to essential systems and prevent further suffering.
A Call for Immediate ActionÂ
The situation in Gaza and the West Bank calls for urgent global attention and intervention. Key priorities include halting forced displacement, facilitating the unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid, protecting healthcare institutions, and ensuring adherence to international humanitarian law. Civilians must be safeguarded, and efforts to evacuate the wounded for life-saving treatment abroad should be prioritized. As the humanitarian toll escalates, the international community must act decisively to prevent further loss of life and alleviate the suffering of millions caught in this devastating crisis.  This humanitarian catastrophe underscores the pressing need for justice and accountability, urging leaders worldwide to prioritize the protection of human lives and uphold international humanitarian principles.
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