The World Health Organization (WHO) has facilitated the medical evacuation of 41 critical patients and 145 companions from Gaza, marking the first such operation since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas on October 10. This effort is a crucial step in addressing the dire medical needs of the enclave’s population, which has been severely impacted by the two-year-long conflict that resulted in over 68,000 Palestinian casualties, mostly civilians.

Many of the evacuated patients suffer from injuries sustained during the conflict, while others have chronic conditions such as cancer and heart disease that the local healthcare system is unable to manage. The WHO estimates that around 15,000 patients are still awaiting approval to receive medical care outside of Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for continued support. The organization has reiterated its call for countries to demonstrate solidarity and for all routes to be opened to expedite medical evacuations.

The Rafah crossing, which was previously used for patient transfers via Egypt, remains closed due to Israel’s concerns over Hamas’s fulfillment of the current hostage release and ceasefire agreement. Hamas has yet to return the bodies of 13 hostages held in Gaza since the October 7, 2023, invasion and massacre in southern Israel. The closure of the crossing has significant implications, as hundreds of patients have died while waiting for medical attention, according to medical groups and Palestinian authorities in the Hamas-ruled enclave.

The WHO, which assumed management of the medical evacuation process last year, reported that 740 individuals, including 137 children, on the waiting list have died since July 2024. The Israeli military’s COGAT unit, responsible for overseeing aid flows into Gaza, has stated that approvals for medical evacuations are subject to security checks. As the situation continues to unfold, the need for a comprehensive and sustainable solution to address the medical crisis in Gaza remains a pressing concern. The international community’s response to this crisis will be crucial in preventing further loss of life and alleviating the suffering of the affected population.