Gaza Health Facilities Face Shutdown Due to Fuel Crisis
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Mohammad Abu Affash, Director of the Medical Emergency Society in Gaza, has issued a stark warning that the cessation of fuel provision after September 19 could lead to the suspension or disruption of activities at around seven non-governmental and public health facilities within the Gaza Strip.
Abu Affash stated that the World Health Organization (WHO) has informed some health centers that their fuel supply will be terminated after the specified date. Several institutions have officially received this notification.
He emphasized the crucial role played by public and private health centers and hospitals in supporting state-run hospitals. These facilities cater to thousands of patients daily, offering specialized services and performing surgical procedures.
Abu Affash further noted that Gaza’s major hospitals are currently operating at approximately 20% of their pre-war capacity, at best. This is due to extensive damage to many departments and facilities, coupled with a severe ongoing shortage of medical equipment, medicines, and personnel.
The Director of the Gaza Medical Emergency Society cautioned that the halt in operations at any further health center would escalate the pressure on public hospitals, resulting in delays for necessary surgeries and diagnostic and treatment services for patients.
He highlighted that the fuel crisis poses a direct threat to the operation of generators, medical equipment, laboratories, refrigerators for storing medicines and vaccines, as well as operating rooms and critical care units within health facilities.
Abu Affash appealed to the World Health Organization, international bodies, and donor countries and institutions to guarantee the continuous supply of fuel for all health centers capable of providing services in the Gaza Strip.
