January 19th marked the momentous day when a ceasefire deal emerged between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas in the Gaza Strip. After 15 months of grueling fighting, at least 100,00 killed, and many more displaced, the 2 million Palestinians residing in the enclave may now have a moment of respite.
The ceasefire will include the release of captives and prisoners from both sides, the spurring of international humanitarian aid, and the Israeli military withdrawal from territories in Gaza. Nevertheless, despite the peace to come, the healthcare systems of the neighboring countries continue to remain in crisis for the families suffering from injuries and disease.
Rik Peeperkorn, a World Health Organization representative stationed in Gaza, explained that the health needs in the densely populated Strip were “immense” because of the “large-scale devastation of the health system”.
During the time of warfare, attempts to deliver critical medical supplies and services to the Gaza Strip were prevented by the strict restrictions and barriers imposed by Israel’s authorities. The UK Parliament found that has led to 1.9 million displaced people in the Gaza Strip who are at risk of malnutrition, starvation, and the spread of infectious diseases.
Thankfully, due to the ceasefire, the flow of healthcare services has increased, with 80 delivery trucks arriving in the coming weeks.
However, despite these recent improvements hospitals continue to struggle to function, with critical resources and doctors in short supply. In addition, The World Health Organization has recorded over 600 attacks on healthcare facilities in Gaza and the killing of more than 1,000 medical workers, with no accountability. This led the remaining workers to flee their jobs and seek refuge in other areas, further exacerbating the remaining doctors. Many healthcare professionals were also captured and taken into Israeli custody, and their freedom remains variable to this day.
The impact on mental health has also been immense. Many people, especially young children, have witnessed and experienced tragedies within their communities and families. One 12- year-old suffers from anxiety and nightmares after she was struck in and Israeli air raid that destroyed her house. Another 8-year-old was injured by an explosive and permamnently damaged his eyes and hands.
One survey found that 84% of respondents were fearful of the future, 78% experienced grief, and 59% of children refused to speak. It is no secret that this upcoming era of peace does not mean that conequences of war do not remain for communities in in this region.
Moving forward, the key to supporting families in the Gaza Strip will require heavy international funding and global support as they enter the reconstruction process, promoting stability for future generations.
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