Euro-Mediterranean Monitor: Rafah Blockade Threatens Gaza Health Crisis

The Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor today issued a stark warning about the dire consequences of Israel's continued closure of Rafah Border Crossing, a vital lifeline for Palestinians in Gaza. According to the rights group, the closure, which has been in effect since May 7, is exacerbating an already critical humanitarian crisis and could potentially lead to a surge in medical emergencies and deaths.

The statement from the monitor highlighted that more than 11,000 Palestinians injured in recent Israeli aggressions are in desperate need of medical treatment outside the besieged enclave. Additionally, the lives of over 10,000 cancer patients are at risk, including approximately 750 children, along with at least 2,000 individuals suffering from other severe illnesses.

With most local hospitals out of service due to the conflict, Gaza’s health system is on the brink of collapse, leaving cancer patients without necessary treatments. The Euro-Mediterranean Monitor called attention to the severe degradation of healthcare infrastructure, noting the urgent need for international intervention.

The human rights organization is appealing to the international community and international humanitarian institutions to urgently intervene and pressure Israel to open the crossings, particularly the Rafah Crossing. They stress the need for the smooth, sustainable, and unrestricted flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, ensuring it reaches Palestinians throughout the region.