Geneva, April 13 (SANA) The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that ongoing restrictions on the entry of medical aid into Gaza are severely hindering the health response and increasing the risk of disease outbreaks.
WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Hanan Balkhy said in remarks to the Palestinian news agency WAFA on Monday that the situation in Gaza has moved beyond the immediate impact of attacks, with restricted access to healthcare services now placing Palestinians at growing risk.
She said the health system in Gaza is operating at maximum capacity amid sharply declining resources and rising needs, noting that life-saving medical supplies are available but not reaching the territory due to continued restrictions and the closure of most crossings.
Balkhy added that trucks carrying medicines and medical equipment remain stalled, leaving patients without adequate care or receiving only limited treatment.
Fuel shortages are further compounding the crisis, with supplies entering Gaza far below required levels, forcing hospitals to rotate operations. She warned that continued fuel shortages threaten the collapse of health services entirely.
The UN official said rebuilding Gaza’s infrastructure and housing could take years, creating conditions that could accelerate the spread of disease and deepen health needs.
She also noted that since the ceasefire declared on October 10, only 388 patients — including 47 children — have been evacuated, while WHO has supported the evacuation of 3,668 patients since October 2023.
Gaza’s health system has deteriorated sharply due to restrictions on medical supplies and fuel shortages, with international organizations warning that the situation risks worsening the humanitarian crisis and could have broader regional consequences.
R.A
