UNICEF: Near-total collapse of Gaza’s health sector

The regional spokesperson for the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Salim Owais, stated today that Gaza’s health sector is experiencing a “near-total collapse” following hundreds of Israeli attacks on medical facilities.

In an interview with Jordan’s Al Mamlaka TV, Owais described the health situation for children as “extremely difficult,” noting that only 18 hospitals out of 36 are partially operational, and 746 attacks on healthcare facilities have been recorded.

He pointed out that the remaining hospitals suffer from acute shortages of medicines and essential medical supplies, while water scarcity and the collapse of sewage networks have contributed to the spread of diseases such as skin infections, viral hepatitis, and meningitis.

Owais confirmed that available aid is insufficient, and logistical and security challenges hinder its delivery to civilians. He also noted that more than 95 percent of schools in Gaza have been damaged, with 88 percent requiring reconstruction or comprehensive rehabilitation.

ANHA