Northern Gaza has now been under violent siege for 20 days. Over 770 people have been killed, more than 1,000 injured and many are missing. The entire area is being asked to evacuate and for those who are unable, their fate is uncertain. The region’s last partially functioning hospitals are being targeted, gravely damaging buildings and equipment, and putting the lives of patients and staff in danger.
Al-Awda’s hospital in Jabalia, which Relief International is supporting, may be being forced to cease operations. The facility has been encircled by armed forces for the past 48 hours, meaning neither civilians nor staff can get in or out. In recent hours, staff report the hospital’s warehouse and pharmacy have been shelled.
The 151 people trapped inside, including seven children, have had no access to clean water and have had no option but to drink salinated water from a well. Responding to evacuation orders, the hospital is now being forced to coordinate the transportation of patients south to Gaza City, however this is not a viable option.
The area around the hospital is inaccessible, which would make transportation impossible without a ceasefire. The journey to Gaza City is extremely dangerous, with limited routes available for safe transport, and healthcare staff and civilians being targeted. Even if they were to arrive safely, it is not certain that treatment will be possible. The whole of Gaza’s healthcare system has been devastated and access to medical supplies is severely lacking.
Conditions in Gaza are unbearable and continue to deteriorate without enough shelter, food and water. At the same time, humanitarian organizations are not able to bring in supplies or staff to provide critically needed support.