Sun Jan 19 06:34:14 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Ceasefire Offers Lifeline for Thousands Needing Urgent Medical Care

**Khan Younis, Gaza Strip –** A fragile ceasefire has brought a glimmer of hope to thousands of Palestinians in Gaza, many of whom desperately need urgent medical treatment unavailable in the war-torn territory. The reopening of the Rafah crossing, sealed since May, is crucial for their survival.

For 15-year-old Hanaa al-Awady, battling cancer and suffering excruciating pain, the ceasefire is a race against time. Her mother, Abeer, describes her daughter’s deteriorating condition, marked by a large tumor and the loss of sight and hearing. Hanaa’s only chance of survival lies in treatment abroad, accessible only through the Rafah crossing.

Dr. Muhammad Abu Salmiya, director of al-Shifa Medical Complex, paints a grim picture of Gaza’s overwhelmed healthcare system. He states that 20,000 Palestinians, including 12,000 in critical condition, require treatment abroad, with approximately 6,000 war-wounded needing urgent care. This includes thousands of amputees and those with severe spinal injuries. He highlights the lack of essential resources, specialists, and equipment, resulting in preventable deaths. Only 490 patients were allowed to leave since May, a fraction of those needing care.

The situation is echoed in the case of 14-year-old Raghd al-Farra, severely injured in an Israeli airstrike. Despite submitting her transfer request months ago, she remains in Gaza, her condition worsening daily. Her mother, Shadia, expresses despair, fearing her daughter will not survive without specialized care.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported devastating statistics: over a quarter of the 105,000 civilians injured during the 15-month conflict face life-altering injuries, while hospitals have been attacked repeatedly, resulting in hundreds of deaths and injuries among healthcare workers. Gaza’s hospitals are operating at a fraction of their capacity.

The ceasefire, while a significant diplomatic step, is only the first step. Dr. Abu Salmiya emphasizes the urgent need for an influx of medical resources, specialists, and the facilitation of patient departures through Rafah. The families of Hanaa and Raghd, along with thousands of others, anxiously await the crossing’s reopening, clinging to the hope that this ceasefire will finally provide a lifeline.

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