Over 1,268 Palestinians died while waiting for medical evacuation during the Rafah crossing's closure since May 2024. Israel reopened it in early February 2026, yet permits only limited exits, leaving thousands in peril. This pattern underscores a deeper crisis in Gaza's healthcare amid ongoing conflict.
The Recent Deadly Strikes in Gaza
Israeli forces conducted strikes that killed at least 21 people in Gaza, including six children and seven women. These attacks targeted areas like Khan Younis and Gaza City, violating the October 2025 ceasefire.
A medic died in a follow-up strike while aiding the wounded in Khan Younis. Such incidents have claimed over 556 lives since the truce began, mostly civilians, per Gaza health reports.
Impact on Medical Evacuations at Rafah
The Rafah crossing, Gaza's link to Egypt, reopened but with tight restrictions imposed by Israel. Only 108 patients and 165 companions evacuated since early February, far below needs.
From February 5 to 9, WHO aided 86 patients' transfers: 63 via Rafah to Egypt and 26 via Kerem Shalom to Italy. Yet, evacuations halted just days after reopening due to security claims.
According to Gaza's Health Ministry spokesperson Zaher al-Wahidi, medicine shortages reach 52 percent overall and 62 percent for chronic conditions. He noted that irregular access leads to health deterioration and deaths among patients.
Humanitarian Crisis and Blocked Aid
UNRWA reports aid blocks persist, with supplies stuck in Jordan and Egypt since March 2025. Less than half the needed aid enters Gaza, worsening malnutrition and disease.
Between February 6 and 11, airstrikes killed 20 and injured 80, per the Ministry of Health. An UNRWA staffer died in Deir al-Balah, highlighting risks to aid workers.
Voices from the Ground and Expert Analysis
Witness Abu Mohamed Habouch described a tank shelling that killed his son and relatives in their home. Such personal accounts reveal the human cost of continued violence.
Palestinian-American expert Yara Asi stated that attacks on healthcare facilitate displacement and hinder rebuilding. She views this as part of creating unlivable conditions in Gaza.
Trauma surgeon Mohammed Tahir called the hospital situation dire, with destroyed facilities and shortages in equipment like dialysis machines. Rebuilding demands urgent international support.
Key Social Media Insights
Social media captures real-time frustration over Rafah restrictions. One post highlights how only five patients exited on the first day, stranding 135 others.
Another account debunks claims of open access, noting 1,268 deaths during waits and calling the siege genocidal.
Ongoing Ceasefire Violations
Despite the truce, Israeli drone strikes killed two cyclists near the ceasefire line in Gaza. Hospital reports confirm such events mount deaths even post-agreement.
Gaza's Health Ministry warns that restricted Rafah operations threaten thousands with critical illnesses like cancer and kidney failure. Immediate expansions could save lives.
Relevance to Broader Gaza Dynamics
These blocks and strikes perpetuate Gaza's isolation, preventing recovery from years of conflict. Understanding this aids advocacy for open borders and sustained aid, fostering long-term stability in the region.
