The World Health Organization (WHO) in the occupied Palestinian territory informed a number of local and non-governmental health institutions operating in the Gaza Strip of its decision to halt fuel supplies needed to operate their generators, effective September 19, without providing any explanation. This coincides with the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza announcing the shutdown of several hospital generators in a statement issued Sunday, citing a lack of oil, spare parts, and fuel, amidst the ongoing Israeli blockade of the Palestinian territory.
Mohammed Abu Afash, head of the Medical Relief Society in the Gaza Strip, told Al-Araby Al-Jadeed that the WHO informed 19 local and non-governmental health facilities across the Strip of its decision, including 12 hospitals and seven health centers. Abu Afash added that the decision only affected non-governmental medical institutions, noting that these centers are fully operational and provide services to many people, assisting the Palestinian Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip in numerous ways given the current health situation.
It is worth noting that the recent Israeli war on the Gaza Strip led to a significant deterioration in the health system. For over two years, the occupation targeted various components of this system, despite warnings, appeals for help, and calls from different parties to protect healthcare—all to no avail. Today, the occupation authorities continue to obstruct its recovery, particularly by hindering the entry of essential supplies, including medicines, medical equipment, and other necessities for operating medical facilities, such as fuel. Some of these supplies are life-saving.
