Why it matters:
Gaza’s hospitals are running out of resources, threatening the lives of thousands in need of urgent medical care. The continued destruction of medical infrastructure in Gaza has severe humanitarian consequences. The situation has drawn international condemnation, with organizations calling for immediate action to restore healthcare access.
The big picture:
The ongoing destruction of Gaza’s healthcare system reflects the broader humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. Hospitals play a crucial role in civilian survival during conflicts, but targeted strikes on medical facilities have exacerbated suffering. The rising number of casualties, particularly among children, has sparked global outrage. Calls for intervention continue as healthcare workers struggle with extreme shortages of medicine, equipment, and safe operating conditions.
What they're saying:
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus ,WHO Director-General: “The systematic destruction of Gaza’s hospitals has gone on for far too long and must stop immediately.”
Kazem Abu Khalaf ,UNICEF Spokesperson in Palestine: “The killing of innocent children has outraged the world. There is no justification for this tragedy. Using starvation as a weapon is a war crime. We call on the U.S. to take action in delivering food and medical aid.”
By the numbers:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), by late spring 2025, 23 out of Gaza’s 36 main hospitals have been fully or partially destroyed to the attacks, fuel shortages, and blockade restrictions. Only 13 hospitals remain partially functional, operating with severely limited capacity.
The human toll continues to rise, with over 44,500 deaths, including civilians, children, and women. More than 105,000 people have been injured, many in critical condition due to the severe shortage of medical facilities. Among the casualties, 41% are children (approximately 18,300) and 25% are women (approximately 11,100).
Additionally, over 1,200 medical personne killed, while hundreds more have been injured or detained. The press has also paid a heavy price, with at least 130 journalists and media activists killed in Gaza.
Beyond healthcare, 2.2 million people,virtually the entire population of Gaza,are experiencing extreme food insecurity. Among them, approximately 600,000 face “imminent famine” (IPC Phase 5), while the rest suffer from high levels of food insecurity (IPC Phases 3 and 4). The crisis is exacerbated by the blockade, destruction of agricultural infrastructure, and severe restrictions on humanitarian aid.
Go deeper:
Death Toll in Gaza Reach to 54,677 as Israeli Strikes Continue
Neda Sajjadi
