The statement comes on the first anniversary of Israel's genocide in Gaza, detailing the catastrophic impact on Gaza’s healthcare system and the dire situation faced by civilians.

According to the ministry, 83% of medical supplies and 60% of medications are now unavailable in hospitals and health centers across the enclave. The shortage has severely hampered the ability to provide care, leaving 25,000 patients and injured individuals in urgent need of treatment outside of the besieged territory.

Devastating Impact of Blockade

Since the war between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, 2023, Israel has cut off electricity to Gaza and blocked the entry of fuel needed to operate its only power plant. Water supplies, communication services, food, and medical resources have also been halted. Border crossings have remained closed, preventing the entry of critical humanitarian aid.

While Israel has permitted a small amount of aid for international organizations, the Gaza Health Ministry emphasized that these supplies are far from sufficient to meet the basic needs of Gaza’s residents. Medical facilities are struggling to operate as they face a catastrophic shortage of resources.

Rising Casualties and Displacement

Since the conflict erupted, nearly 41,900 people, mostly women and children, have been killed, with over 97,100 others injured, according to local health authorities. The ongoing airstrikes and ground assaults have displaced almost the entire population of the Gaza Strip, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis caused by the blockade and leading to severe shortages of food, clean water, and medicine.

Despite a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire, Israel has continued its offensive, prompting widespread international condemnation. Gaza remains under siege, and its health sector is on the verge of collapse.

International Legal Actions

Israel’s actions in Gaza have drawn the attention of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where the country is now facing a genocide case. The charges are related to its actions during the ongoing offensive, with critics accusing the Israeli military of committing war crimes against Palestinian civilians.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to worsen, with the Gaza Health Ministry urging the international community to intervene to prevent further loss of life and ensure access to medical care for the population. (ILKHA)