Humanitarian Crisis Deepens as Only One Medic Remains at Gaza Hospital

With overwhelming destruction reported at Kamal Adwan Hospital following Israeli military operations, only one medic remains to care for patients. Amidst claims of Hamas using the hospital as a base, humanitarian organizations warn of a deepening crisis in northern Gaza, as many residents face starvation and disease.

As the aftermath of an Israeli military raid continues to unfold, Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza is facing a critical humanitarian crisis, now with only one doctor remaining on staff. Dr. Khalil Daqran, the sole physician still present, has urgently appealed for international medical assistance, stating that patients are suffering and dying due to a severe lack of medical care.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) recently declared that they had apprehended approximately 100 individuals deemed "terrorists" during their operation at the hospital, which has been criticized by local health authorities who deny any claims of Hamas hijacking the medical facility. Dr. Daqran reported significant destruction within the hospital, including widespread fires and demolishment of vital infrastructure. He voiced grave concerns regarding the wellbeing of thirty medical personnel still unaccounted for due to the assaults and upheaval caused by the raid.

The IDF maintains that their operation was aimed at neutralizing a Hamas stronghold, asserting that measures were taken to protect civilians and allow for the safe evacuation of patients. However, they also reported the discovery of various weapons and documents related to Hamas during the incursion—contentions that have not gone unchallenged by local officials.

Reports indicate that many patients, along with medical staff, were injured or detained amid the chaos of the military operation, further exacerbating the ongoing medical crisis. Compounding the distress, Gaza’s northern region is reeling from a significant humanitarian disaster with critical shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.

International observers, including UN human rights officials, have raised alarms about the dire conditions, with calls for urgent action to prevent what has been described as potential crimes against humanity. Rights advocates have warned that Israel's military actions could lead to mass civilian displacement, raising fears of a targeted strategy against Palestinians in the region.

This situation follows a tumultuous period of violence that began with an unprecedented assault on southern Israel by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties and major geopolitical turmoil. Since then, the toll of the conflict has escalated, with more than 42,000 lives reportedly lost in Gaza.

In light of the increasing tensions and deteriorating humanitarian situation, calls for both sides to seek a peaceful resolution have become more pressing, yet remain overshadowed by mutual accusations and entrenched hostilities.