Hospitals in Gaza are facing a devastating situation as they struggle to provide medical treatment under dire conditions, according to a doctor with aid group Doctors Without Borders. Dr. Tanya Haj-Hassan spoke from Amman, Jordan, highlighting the lack of medical supplies in Gaza that has left doctors without the necessary tools to treat patients, particularly women and children, with severe injuries and burns.
“Our hearts are burning. This is an avalanche of human suffering. And it’s 100% man-made,” Haj-Hassan expressed in an interview with CNN’s Paula Newton. She further explained that doctors at Al Shifa Hospital, the largest hospital in the strip, are witnessing children with severe burns, missing limbs, and other catastrophic injuries. They are left with limited pain control options and are running out of anesthetic drugs. Moreover, there is a shortage of antibiotics and dressings to treat wound infections.
In light of the dire situation, Haj-Hassan called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. She emphasized the need for a complete halt to what she described as an “indiscriminate bombardment and massacre.” The toll on healthcare providers has already been devastating, with over 130 healthcare workers lost, many of whom she knew personally and shared that they have also lost their families.
Despite the dangers they face, medical workers in Gaza continue to work tirelessly, with their own lives and the lives of their families at risk. They have made the difficult decision to stay with their patients and refuse to leave, demonstrating their commitment to providing healthcare even amidst the ongoing conflict.
The situation in Gaza remains critical, with hospitals overwhelmed and lacking essential medical supplies. The international community must respond urgently to support Gaza and ensure the well-being of its people during this devastating time.