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Israel Closes Rafah Border, Thousands of Gaza Patients Face Medical Void Crisis
Israel's Rafah Border Closure Deepens Suffering for Gaza Patients
The decision by Israel to close the Rafah border is exacerbating the suffering of thousands of patients in the Gaza Strip. Citing security concerns, Israel's closure has further deteriorated the already war-ravaged medical environment within the Gaza Strip. While the border briefly partially reopened in early February, allowing hundreds of patients to receive urgent treatment outside the Gaza Strip, it is now closed again.
Dr. Mohammad Abu-Salmiya, director of Al-Shifa Hospital, stated that over 21,000 patients require urgent medical treatment outside the Gaza Strip, including more than 4,500 children and over 4,500 cancer patients. He emphasized that the closure of the Rafah border is tantamount to a 'death sentence' for these patients. Indeed, it is estimated that over 1,300 people who were waiting for the border to reopen have already died. Local resident Mousa Pelfel reported that his critically ill grandson is not receiving adequate treatment, while Amal Al-Hatu pleaded that for patients, including her husband, the border is a lifeline. She added that she cannot even obtain medication for high blood pressure and diabetes, leading to a 'very slow death.'
Shortage of Medical Supplies and Destruction of Hospital Facilities
Hospitals within the Gaza Strip face severe shortages of medicines and surgical supplies due to Israel's restrictions. Furthermore, Israel's two-year bombing campaign has destroyed many hospital facilities, effectively collapsing the medical system. As the war in Iran escalates, diverting international attention away from the Gaza Strip, thousands of patients are left abandoned and without hope. This reflects Israel's indifferent attitude towards the sanctity of human life.
*Source: YouTube: TRT World (2026-03-11)*
