Gaza Says Israel Blocks Thousands of Patients from Medical Travel
Speaking at a press conference held at Al-Shifa Medical Complex in Gaza City, acting Deputy Health Minister Maher Shamiya said that documented medical referrals had reached 17,757 as of May 20.
He added that only 3,226 individuals have been able to exit Gaza so far via the Rafah and Kerem Shalom (Karam Abu Salem) crossings, including 1,204 patients who required urgent care abroad.
The health authorities also described Gaza’s medical system as being under severe strain, citing widespread damage to hospitals and medical infrastructure following prolonged conflict, alongside critical shortages of medicine, fuel, and essential supplies.
The Rafah Crossing, which connects Gaza to Egypt, was partially reopened in February under a US-mediated ceasefire arrangement after being largely closed for an extended period following the takeover of the terminal in May 2024, according to reports.
However, it was later shut again in late February amid renewed hostilities, before limited crossings resumed during March and April.
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