On January 18, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a sobering report projecting that $10 billion will be needed to restore Gaza’s severely damaged healthcare system. This announcement comes in the wake of ongoing hostilities and the humanitarian crisis that has unfolded since the escalation of violence in October 2023. The need for substantial international support is critical as Gaza grapples with the aftermath of destruction, loss of life, and a healthcare system on the brink of collapse.
The Current State of Healthcare in Gaza
The healthcare system in Gaza has faced unprecedented challenges over the past few years, exacerbated by a combination of conflict, blockade, and resource shortages. According to WHO reports, out of 36 hospitals in Gaza, only 16 were partially operational as of early January 2025, while 20 hospitals remained closed due to damage or lack of resources. The ongoing conflict has led to significant infrastructure damage, with many hospitals rendered non-functional and healthcare professionals facing dire conditions.
Impact of Armed Conflict
Since the escalation of violence that began on October 7, 2023, healthcare facilities have been systematically targeted. The WHO documented 654 attacks on healthcare facilities, resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities among healthcare workers. These attacks have not only destroyed physical infrastructure but also instilled fear among medical personnel and patients alike.
Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, WHO Country Representative in Palestine, stated:
“The systematic dismantling of the health system has pushed it to the brink of total collapse. The need for immediate international support cannot be overstated.”
The consequences of these attacks are devastating. Hospitals have been overwhelmed with patients suffering from war-related injuries, while essential medical supplies have dwindled to critically low levels. Surgeons have had to operate under horrific conditions sometimes without anesthesia due to shortages of basic medical supplies.
Humanitarian Crisis
The humanitarian crisis extends beyond just healthcare; it encompasses food security, sanitation, and overall living conditions. As reported by various humanitarian organizations, around 62% of all buildings in Gaza have been destroyed, with even higher destruction rates in northern regions. The blockade imposed over the years has compounded these issues, limiting access to food, clean water, and medical supplies.
According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), approximately 14,000 patients required medical evacuation abroad by the end of December 2024 due to inadequate local care capabilities. The situation is dire: many families have lost multiple relatives, and children are particularly vulnerable to both physical and psychological trauma.
The Financial Requirement
The WHO’s projection that $10 billion is needed to restore Gaza’s healthcare system highlights not only the scale of destruction but also the urgent need for a comprehensive recovery plan. This funding would be allocated towards:
- Rebuilding Healthcare Infrastructure: Reconstructing damaged hospitals and clinics to ensure they can operate effectively.
- Restocking Medical Supplies: Ensuring that essential medicines and surgical supplies are available for healthcare providers.
- Training Healthcare Workers: Providing training programs for medical staff who have been traumatized by the conflict or who require updated skills.
- Enhancing Emergency Response Systems: Developing robust emergency response systems that can handle future crises more effectively.
International Support
The WHO emphasizes that achieving these goals will require substantial international support from governments, NGOs, and private entities. Collaborative efforts are essential for mobilizing resources and expertise needed for recovery.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, remarked:
“The international community must come together to support Gaza’s healthcare system restoration efforts. Failure to act now will have long-term consequences not only for health but also for stability in the region.”
Challenges Ahead
While the financial commitment is crucial, several challenges lie ahead in restoring Gaza’s healthcare system:
- Political Instability: Ongoing political tensions may hinder effective coordination between local authorities and international organizations.
- Access Restrictions: Continued restrictions on movement and access to resources could impede recovery efforts.
- Public Trust: Rebuilding trust between communities and healthcare providers is essential for encouraging individuals to seek care.
- Mental Health Support: Addressing mental health needs will be critical as many individuals suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to their experiences during the conflict.
The Role of Humanitarian Organizations
Humanitarian organizations such as Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) have been actively involved in providing emergency medical care in Gaza during this crisis. MSF has reported a dramatic increase in demand for services as hospitals struggle to cope with overwhelming patient loads.
MSF’s Contribution
MSF has emphasized its commitment to delivering care despite challenges posed by ongoing violence:
- Providing emergency surgical care for trauma victims.
- Offering psychological support services for those affected by conflict.
- Conducting vaccination campaigns to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.
However, MSF has also faced significant obstacles due to attacks on its facilities and staff members. Reports indicate that around 1,000 health workers have lost their lives since the onset of hostilities.
Conclusion
The WHO’s projection that $10 billion is needed to restore Gaza’s shattered healthcare system underscores an urgent call for action from the international community. As Gaza continues to grapple with the devastating effects of conflict and blockade, restoring its healthcare infrastructure is paramount not only for immediate relief but also for long-term stability and recovery.
Efforts must focus on rebuilding hospitals, restocking medical supplies, training healthcare workers, and enhancing emergency response systems while ensuring that humanitarian access is prioritized. The road ahead will undoubtedly be challenging; however, with coordinated international support and commitment from various stakeholders, there is hope for a brighter future where communities can regain access to essential health services once again.
As we reflect on this crisis, we must recognize our shared responsibility toward those affected by conflict around the world ensuring that no one is left behind in their time of need.