Gaza Health Ministry Warns of Epidemic Amid Israeli Airstrikes and Siege

The Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza has issued a dire warning about the potential outbreak of a major epidemic wave in the midst of ongoing Israeli airstrikes and the siege on the Hamas-controlled enclave. According to Ministry spokesperson Ashraf al-Qedra, as of October 7 when the Israel-Hamas conflict began, up to 3,150 cases of diseases were reported in a single day, with a significant number of these cases affecting children.

These diseases include conditions like diarrhea, food poisoning, scabies, and bronchial infections. The crowded shelter facilities, lack of clean water, and poor personal hygiene have contributed to the increasing prevalence of epidemic diseases. Al-Qedra has called upon the international community to provide urgent assistance and restore essential services in Gaza, including water, electricity, and sanitation.

The conflict, which started with a surprise attack by Hamas militants on Israel, has resulted in a significant loss of life on both sides and has left Gaza in a state of humanitarian crisis.