⚠️ Civilian Casualties and Infrastructure Damage
The conflict, which intensified after Hamas's attack on Israel in October 2023, has resulted in over 50,900 Palestinian deaths, many of whom are civilians. On April 13, Israeli airstrikes targeted the Al-Ahli Arab Baptist Hospital in Gaza City, one of the few remaining operational medical facilities. The attack destroyed the emergency department and forced the evacuation of hundreds of patients. Israeli officials claimed the hospital was being used by Hamas militants, a charge Hamas denies. Ya Libnan+3Reuters+3AP News+3
🏥 Healthcare System Collapse
The destruction of Al-Ahli Hospital exacerbates an already critical healthcare situation. With 34 hospitals out of service, the remaining facilities are overwhelmed and under-resourced. The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem condemned the attack, highlighting the dire need for medical services in the region. AP News
🍽️ Starvation and Disease
The blockade and continuous bombardment have led to severe shortages of food, clean water, and medical supplies. Civilians are facing starvation, and the spread of diseases is rampant due to unsanitary living conditions. The Guardian describes Gaza as a "killing field" where people are dying from hunger and preventable illnesses. The Guardian
👶 Impact on Children
Children are disproportionately affected, with reports indicating that over 10,000 have been killed since the conflict began. Many more suffer from injuries, malnutrition, and psychological trauma. UNICEF reports that 90% of children in pediatric hospitals exhibit symptoms of severe anxiety and post-traumatic stress. Wikipedia
🏚️ Displacement and Living Conditions
Approximately 1 million people have been forced to evacuate Rafah since May 2024, with some displaced up to six times. Many are living in overcrowded shelters lacking basic necessities. British Red Cross
📰 Recent Developments
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Hospital Strikes: Israeli missiles struck Al-Ahli Hospital, leading to its closure and the evacuation of patients. El País+2Reuters+2AP News+2
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International Condemnation: The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem and various international bodies have condemned attacks on medical facilities and called for the protection of civilians. AP News+1Reuters+1
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Ceasefire Negotiations: Talks involving Hamas, Israel, Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. are ongoing in Cairo, aiming to reach a ceasefire agreement.
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