Gaza.. more than 20,000 sick and wounded await medical evacuation amid drug shortages

More than 20,000 sick and wounded in Gaza await medical evacuation, including 6,052 priority cases, about 5,000 children, and 1,800 elderly. 1,344 patients have died while waiting. 25 out of 38 hospitals are out of service. Drug shortage is 47% and medical consumables 58%. Rafah crossing operates at an average of 12 departures per day.

More than 20,000 sick and wounded in the Gaza Strip face serious health deterioration due to restrictions on travel for treatment outside the Strip and a severe shortage of medicines and medical supplies. According to data from the Gaza Ministry of Health, the number registered on travel waiting lists reached 20,719 people, including 6,052 priority medical cases, about five thousand children, and approximately 1,800 elderly. Over 1,344 patients and wounded have died while waiting for treatment. Cases include cancer, heart, and kidney diseases, and injuries requiring specialized surgeries. 25 out of 38 hospitals were out of service by October 2025, and the remaining hospitals operate partially. Shortages were recorded at 47% for medicines, 58% for medical consumables, and 85% for laboratory testing materials. The Rafah crossing was reopened on a limited basis on February 2, 2026, but the number of departures for treatment remains below needs, averaging 12 people per day. Director of Al-Shifa Medical Complex, Muhammad Abu Salmiya, warned that restrictions on patient travel and the closure of crossings double the risks.