In brief
Dr. Sayeed Joudeh, the only remaining orthopedic surgeon in northern Gaza, was reportedly killed by Israeli tank fire while on his way to treat patients amid escalating violence. The incident raises concerns over the urgent need for medical assistance in a region ravaged by conflict.
Dr. Sayeed Joudeh, reportedly the last orthopedic surgeon in northern Gaza, was killed by Israeli tank fire as he traveled to work, according to Palestinian sources. The grandfather, who had come out of retirement to help during the ongoing conflict, served at both the Kamal Adwan and al-Awda hospitals. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, has led to widespread anguish among the local community.Dr. Joudeh was on his way to assess a patient at al-Awda Hospital when he was targeted. Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, stated that the attack was direct and fatal. However, some eyewitnesses assert that Dr. Joudeh was struck by a drone. In response, the Israeli military has indicated that it is unaware of the incident but is conducting an investigation.The situation has been dire for the healthcare system in Gaza, which has been described as significantly compromised. Louise Wateridge of the United Nations aid agency in the region emphasized that hospitals have deteriorated to the point where they lack basic sanitation, medical staff, and essential equipment, leading to preventable deaths among patients.The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has deepened after months of intense Israeli bombardments, primarily aimed at Hamas and Islamic Jihad targets. The conflict escalated following Hamas's attack on southern Israel, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 people. In retaliation, Israel has engaged in extensive military operations within Gaza, with reported casualties surpassing 44,875, according to figures provided by the Hamas-run health ministry.Local medics revealed that one such attack occurred Thursday night when an Israeli strike on a central Gaza post office, used as a shelter for displaced civilians, resulted in at least 30 deaths and over 50 injuries. The Israeli military claimed they were targeting a high-ranking member of Islamic Jihad responsible for attacks against civilians and military personnel, asserting that these groups exploit civilians as shields.The ongoing violence and loss of vital medical personnel underscore the critical need for humanitarian intervention and support in the beleaguered region of Gaza.
