By Bunmi Yekini
The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed optimism following the Gaza ceasefire and the recent hostage and prisoner release deal, offering a glimmer of hope to millions affected by the prolonged conflict. However, the health challenges in Gaza remain critical, with the region’s health infrastructure in shambles and tens of thousands in urgent need of care.
“The entire population of Gaza has faced multiple displacements, with over 46,600 lives lost and more than 110,000 injured,” said WHO officials in a statement. “An estimated 30,000 people face life-changing injuries and will require ongoing rehabilitation.”
The health system in Gaza is on the brink of collapse. Only half of its 36 hospitals remain partially operational, with nearly all suffering damage or destruction. Alarmingly, only 38% of primary health care centers are functional. The statement highlighted a rising transmission of infectious diseases, malnutrition, and a looming famine risk.
“Addressing these needs and rebuilding the health system will be extremely complex,” the WHO emphasized. “Billions in investment and unwavering commitment from donors and the international community are required.”
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WHO is mobilizing a 60-day plan to restore and expand Gaza’s health system, focusing on trauma care, child health, noncommunicable diseases, mental health, and more. The organization is working with partners to rehabilitate damaged health facilities, increase hospital bed capacity, deploy additional health workers, and integrate prefabricated clinics into underserved areas.
“It is critical to remove security obstacles hindering operations and enable systematic access to all areas of Gaza,” WHO stated. “We also call for expedited medical evacuations for over 12,000 patients in need of specialized care and the lifting of restrictions on essential supplies.”
The organization reiterated its call for all parties to honor their commitments under the ceasefire agreement and work toward a political resolution. “A lasting peace is essential to address the protracted crisis in the occupied Palestinian territory,” the WHO underscored.
With a focus on immediate needs and long-term recovery, the WHO is scaling up its operations and appealing for massive funding to rebuild Gaza’s health infrastructure. The stakes, it warned, are nothing short of life or death for the region’s most vulnerable populations.