Hospitals in Gaza Warn of Fuel Shortage Amid Intensifying Conflict
The Gaza health ministry has sounded an alarm, warning that hospitals in the territory have only two days’ worth of fuel left. This urgent appeal comes amid escalating conflict and worsening humanitarian conditions, with aid deliveries facing severe disruptions. Marwan al-Hams, director of Gaza’s field hospitals, issued a dire warning, stating that hospitals will cease operations or significantly limit services if fuel supplies are not replenished. The United Nations has echoed these concerns, highlighting that essential aid, including food, water, and medical supplies, is being severely hampered due to Israeli restrictions and growing insecurity in the region. Key Developments: ICC Arrest Warrants: The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant. The charges include war crimes and crimes against humanity, particularly the alleged use of starvation as a method of warfare. Humanitarian Crisis: The UN and the World Health Organization (WHO) have expressed grave concerns about the deteriorating conditions, especially in northern Gaza. Israeli military operations in Jabalia and Beit Lahia have caused mass casualties and displacement. International Reactions: While some leaders, including US President Joe Biden, criticized the ICC’s warrants, others, like Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris, supported legal accountability. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban offered a contrasting stance, inviting Netanyahu to visit in defiance of the ICC. Escalation Beyond Gaza: The conflict has spilled over into Lebanon, with Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah strongholds. Clashes have resulted in significant casualties, with the Lebanese health ministry reporting over 3,580 deaths since late September. The war, which began after Hamas’s deadly attack on October 7, 2023, has claimed tens of thousands of lives in Gaza, with the majority being civilians, according to the Gaza health ministry. Meanwhile, calls for a ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access continue to grow from the international community. Source: NDTV Photo Credit: NDTV