GAZA

The Gaza Health Ministry on Thursday issued a call for retired healthcare workers to start their duties in healthcare institutions as soon as possible.

Due to the Israeli attacks, the healthcare sector in Gaza has come to a standstill, and the ministry is seeking healthcare professionals.

According to a statement, the ministry also appealed to the international community and humanitarian aid organizations to provide urgent medical assistance to hospitals in Gaza, emphasizing that many patients and injured individuals will lose their lives if assistance is delayed.

The statement also mentioned the shortage of fuel and medicines in the hospitals.

The conflict in Gaza, under Israeli bombardment and blockade since Oct. 7, began when Hamas initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea, and air. It said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

Gaza is experiencing a dire humanitarian crisis, with no electricity, while water, food, fuel, and medical supplies are running out.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an “immediate humanitarian cease-fire” to ease the “epic human suffering.”

At least 3,808 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza, while the figure stands at more than 1,400 people in Israel.