Since Israel's occupation of the Rafah crossing in the Gaza Strip, the situation for sick and wounded individuals has become increasingly dire. According to Gaza's Hamas-controlled health ministry, no sick or wounded people have been able to leave the area, putting the lives of thousands at risk.
The health ministry has warned that this closure has led to avoidable complications and even death for those in need of urgent medical treatment outside of Gaza. It is estimated that around 25,000 individuals require medical care that is only accessible outside the Gaza Strip.
Prior to the closure of the Rafah crossing, only a fraction of those in need were able to travel for treatment. The health ministry reported that out of the 25,000 individuals requiring medical attention, only 4,895 were able to travel when the crossing was open.
On May 7, Israel took control of the Gazan side of the crossing as part of its military operation near the Egyptian border in Rafah. This move has further restricted the already limited access to medical care for those in Gaza.
The ongoing closure of the Rafah crossing has left thousands stranded and in urgent need of medical assistance. The international community is being called upon to intervene and facilitate the safe passage of those requiring medical treatment outside of the Gaza Strip.
