In brief
Palestinian officials report that Dr. Sayeed Joudeh, who had returned from retirement to aid during the war, was killed by an Israeli strike while en route to work. His death underscores the dire healthcare situation in Gaza, with hospitals lacking basic medical supplies and personnel, making it increasingly challenging for the civilian population amid the ongoing conflict.
In a tragic escalation of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Dr. Sayeed Joudeh, believed to be the last orthopaedic surgeon in northern Gaza, was killed during an Israeli military strike on Thursday. Palestinian officials have confirmed that Dr. Joudeh was en route to his workplace at al-Awda Hospital to treat patients when the incident occurred. Reports specify that he was fired upon by Israeli tanks, though some eyewitness accounts suggest he may have been targeted by a drone. The Israeli military has stated that it was not aware of the incident and is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding his death. Dr. Joudeh had recently come out of retirement to assist in treating war-injured patients and was actively involved in efforts to address the severe humanitarian crisis in the region. Just last month, he drew attention to the plight of civilians during a press conference at Kamal Adwan Hospital, holding a placard that read "Save US," highlighting the desperate conditions faced by those in Gaza. Louise Wateridge, a representative from the United Nations aid agency, elaborated on the devastating effects of Dr. Joudeh's death on the local community, stating the already limited medical facilities in the north are facing an unprecedented crisis as healthcare providers dwindle. “Hospitals are not hospitals anymore,” she lamented, indicating the lack of sanitation, medical supplies, and personnel. The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with reports of at least 44,875 individuals killed and over 100,000 injured since the onset of renewed conflict following Hamas’s attack on October 7 last year, which led to a substantial retaliatory operation by Israel. The latest airstrike on a post office turned shelter reportedly killed at least 30 individuals and injured many more. The Israeli military claims its actions are targeted at Hamas and other militant groups, accusing them of endangering civilians by using them as human shields. As the conflict endures, the consequences on civilian life become increasingly dire.
