Challenges Faced During a Critical Medical Mission in Northern Gaza
On October 21, a high-stakes mission led by the World Health Organization (WHO) successfully transferred 14 patients and 10 caregivers from Kamal Adwan Hospital in North Gaza to Al-Shifa Hospital located in Gaza City. This operation took place amidst severe hostilities and significant access limitations. Although there was an initial agreement for the transfer, essential medical supplies, blood products, and fuel—crucial for maintaining operations at both Kamal Adwan and Al-Awda hospitals—were denied just hours before the mission commenced on October 20.
Mission Details and Obstacles Encountered
The two-day mission was fraught with delays caused by multiple checkpoints and rigorous security screenings. The team had to spend the night at Kamal Adwan Hospital because they were unable to proceed to Al-Shifa due to ongoing conflict in the vicinity. Throughout that night, heavy bombardments near the hospital heightened anxiety among patients, healthcare workers, and members of the mission team.
The journey to Al-Shifa began around midday on October 21; however, all patients were required to exit their ambulances for security checks along the way. Some individuals on stretchers were left exposed on the ground during these screenings while certain staff members faced degrading treatment.
Status of Healthcare Facilities Amidst Conflict
This marked WHO’s fourth attempt at conducting missions in northern Gaza since October 1. Out of a total of 21 requested missions this month alone, only six have been successfully executed; most have either been denied or obstructed.
Kamal Adwan Hospital is currently operating at limited capacity but is struggling under increasing demand due to escalating violence in northern regions coupled with shortages of medical supplies and fuel resources. On October 22 alone, reports indicated damage from strikes near its entrance. Presently housing 95 patients—including 15 critically ill individuals requiring intensive care (four needing continuous life support)—the hospital has also received over two days approximately 200 severely injured persons along with 53 deceased bodies amid overwhelming conditions.
The Urgent Need for Protection of Healthcare Services
As hostilities escalate further within North Gaza, WHO expresses grave concern regarding both Kamal Adwan and Al-Awda hospitals—the last remaining functional healthcare facilities—which must be safeguarded against attacks. A complete breakdown of healthcare services would exacerbate an already dire situation leading to additional loss of life.
A year into ongoing conflicts that have targeted health services while depriving them of necessary supplies like fuel continues unabated; WHO’s ability to reach health facilities regularly remains severely hindered by delays or outright denials during missions.
A Call for Action from WHO
WHO reiterates its urgent appeal for unrestricted access to health facilities alongside reliable facilitation for future missions as well as sustained humanitarian aid flow into Gaza. The organization emphasizes that protecting healthcare services is paramount—and above all else—a ceasefire must be established immediately.
