Palestinian International Organization for Peace and Human Rights

May 16, 2025

On May 16, 2025, warnings were issued regarding the deteriorating capacity of the health system in the Gaza Strip to respond to medical needs. This came amidst damage to health facilities and continued restrictions on the entry of medical supplies since the tightening of the blockade on March 2, 2025.

Humanitarian repercussions

The shortage of medicines and equipment and the increasing number of injured people are putting severe pressure on emergency departments and operating rooms, while patients with chronic diseases who need treatment that cannot be postponed are affected.

Rights and legal protection

International humanitarian law requires respect for and protection of medical units and health personnel, with arrangements made for the wounded and sick to access care.

Protection and monitoring methods

Ensuring the continuity of hospitals and their supply of fuel and medicine, and making medical evacuations available when needed, are priorities for protecting the right to health.

Featured image: Illustrative archival image and does not document the event. An old photograph of Al-Shifa Hospital, photo credit: Gigi Ibrahim, license CC BY 2.0 — Image source.