Gaza hospital director warns of worst malnutrition crisis in Gaza
Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital’s medical director has said Gaza is now facing a severe malnutrition crisis, Middle East Eye via Wafa reported on April 24th.
According to the medical director, Khalil al-Daqran, the territory has reached the fifth stage of malnutrition, which is the most extreme stage, as classified by the World Health Organisation. This comes amid Israel’s ongoing blockade on aid entering Gaza.
In an interview with Voice of Palestine, al-Daqran stated that “Gaza’s children are going through the most dangerous stages of malnutrition due to a complete absence of food and infant formula, and their lives are in real danger.” He also stressed that approximately 200,000 Palestinians with chronic illnesses are at risk of death due to a shortage of crucial medications.
The Ministry of Health in Gaza said that at least 60,000 children face critical health risks because of malnutrition, Middle East Eye reported on April 9th. The lack of clean water and food has deepened the ongoing health crisis in Gaza, according to the ministry.
Doctors have expressed concerns over rising cases of dehydration and hunger. Aid organisations have urged for urgent humanitarian access, but deliveries have been limited.
The National reported on February 25th, as cited by Levantis, that several babies in Gaza froze to death. According to hospital director, Dr. Saeed Salah, children were admitted to intensive care with cold-related injuries.
UNICEF has noted that the combination of inadequate shelter, limited nutrition, and winter temperatures poses a significant threat to children’s health.
Middle East Eye, Wafa, The National
