At least R125m needed to ease burden on Palestinian hospitals
ISLAMIC Relief is urgently procuring life-saving medical supplies to support hospitals in Gaza that have been pushed to breaking point as they treat the victims of recent border clashes.
More than 50 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli gunfire over the past few days, including an eight-monthold baby, and more than 2700 people have been injured.
The victims were involved in largely peaceful protests near the Israeli border that came under fire.
“There is an urgent need for more ambulances, emergency medical aid and qualified staff to treat patients,” says Muneeb Abu-Ghazaleh, Islamic Relief ’s head of mission in Gaza.
“With limited supplies and little support, hospitals are at breaking point and really struggling to cope. We have visited hospitals where treatments are taking place on the floor, administered by medical volunteers rather than fully qualified staff.
“At least $10 million (R125m) worth of medical aid is needed to ensure people are properly treated.”
The medical emergency has added to the challenges facing the people of Gaza in the run-up to the holy month of Ramadaan.
Poverty is increasing, with a lack of employment opportunities and basic services compounded by the effects of a long-term blockade that limits the movement of people and goods.
Now Gaza’s hospitals are overwhelmed, and medical staff are only able to stabilise the majority of those coming in as shortages mean patients cannot receive a full course of treatment.
The recent demonstrations in Gaza, which are protected by an international freedom to engage in peaceful protest, are the culmination of frustration at being blockaded from the outside world.
The deteriorating humanitarian situation could be eased by lifting the blockade and allowing more essential supplies in.
The UN has warned that Gaza is on the verge of total collapse, and the UN secretary-general’s condemnation of Israel’s response to the protests has been echoed in concerns expressed by the EU and the UK, French and Canadian governments.
“A wide range of voices globally has called for respect to be given for the right to peaceful protest, and the principle of proportionality in the use of force.
“Islamic Relief ’s usual focus is on children, youth and the most vulnerable households,” says Muneeb Abu-Ghazaleh.
“But in an emergency like this we have to prioritise our efforts towards the health of those affected.
The easing of the blockade could improve the situation dramatically, helping lives to be rebuilt through employment, education and trade.
“Medical supplies are not covered by the blockade, so we can procure them easily, but we really need additional funds to do so.” How To Get Involved Islamic Relief South Africa (IRSA) has launched the Gaza Emergency Appeal to raise funds for much-needed medical supplies and to support ongoing aid efforts in the region.
Donations towards the Gaza Emergency Appeal can be made online at www. islamic-relief.org.za
General bank deposits (Lillah, Sadaqah) can be made to Islamic Relief SA, Standard Bank, Account Number 005318459, Savings Account, Fordsburg Branch, Branch Code 005205, Reference: GAZ18 & contact number.
For Zakat contributions, use the following bank account details: Islamic Relief SA, First National Bank, Account number 62161066933, Cheque Account, Smith Street Branch, Branch code 221426.
Reference: GAZ18 & contact number.
Medical staff are only able to stabilise the majority of those admitted