The Hamas-run Ministry of Health has declared a state of complete collapse in the health sector.
This alarming situation arose as three major hospitals, including the enclave's largest, Al Shifa Hospital, ceased functioning due to severe power shortages, as per Fox News.
Gaza's Crisis: Infants Endangered by Conflict and Cold
The most heart-wrenching scene is at Al Shifa, where dozens of infants, dependent on incubators now shut off due to the electricity crisis, face imminent danger.
The plight of these infants is acute. "Aluminum foil is used to shield these babies from the biting cold," reports Mehdat Abbas, Director General of the Ministry of Health.
With winter setting in, the lack of proper heating means these infants are at risk of dying from exposure. In this dire situation, survival becomes a race against the unforgiving elements.
The World Health Organization (WHO) echoes the severity of the crisis. Its Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, termed the situation "dire and perilous," worsened by the ongoing conflict.
The WHO's statement reflects a grim reality - hospitals, traditionally sanctuaries in times of war, have become scenes of devastation.
In response, Israel proposed transferring the vulnerable infants to a safer hospital. However, the feasibility of such transfers is highly contested.
According to Melanie Ward, CEO of Medical Aid for Palestinians, the logistical hurdles, including the availability of skilled ambulances and receiving hospitals, make this a near-impossible task. The organization argues that ceasing hostilities is the only viable solution to ensure the survival of these infants.
The IDF affirmed its dedication to facilitating the transit of essential medical supplies to Al Shifa while maintaining a clear distinction between combatants and civilians, according to CBS News.
IDF's Dual Role in Gaza
Yet, the IDF's encirclement of Al Shifa and allegations of Hamas using the hospital as a military base complicate the situation. Such claims, if proven, could render the hospital a legitimate target under international law despite the general protection afforded to medical facilities in conflict zones.
Before the current escalation, Al Shifa was already in crisis due to ongoing bombardments. The situation was further intensified by fuel shortages, as reported by the IDF, who alleged that Hamas had interfered with the delivery of fuel.
According to its director, these shortages have left the hospital with barely enough energy to power generators for a short period.
The United Nations' concern for civilian protection is evident. Andrea de Domenico, UN head for Humanitarian Affairs in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, emphasizes balancing military objectives and civilian safety, underscoring the principle of precaution even in justifiable military actions.
Amidst Israel's escalating military operations, states have emerged alleging the use of civilians as human shields and the targeting of medical facilities in Gaza. These allegations further complicate an already complex situation.
The UN reiterates both parties' obligation to adhere to international humanitarian law, highlighting the neglect of civilian welfare in the ongoing conflict, The New York Times reported.
