RAMALLAH, September 23, 2026 (WAFA) — The director of Medical Relief in Gaza, Mohammad Abu Afash, said stocks of 45 types of medicines have been completely depleted, while hospitals are facing a 54% shortage of medical supplies and a deficit of more than 80% in laboratory materials.

Speaking to Voice of Palestine, Abu Afash said the solutions provided so far have been partial and temporary. He noted that shortages of diesel, medicines, medical supplies, and intravenous solutions have forced health facilities to scale back services, with some hospitals suspending operations except for emergency care.

Abu Afash warned of additional health risks as shortages persist and winter approaches, potentially bringing waves of viral infections and other diseases. He said large numbers of wounded and sick Palestinians, including patients with chronic illnesses, require ongoing medical care and medication, while the volume of medical aid and fuel entering the Gaza Strip has declined.

Abu Afash said data from the World Health Organization and the Ministry of Health indicate that between 300,000 and 350,000 people in Gaza have diabetes, while more than 82,000 patients require medication. He explained that the quantities of medicines entering the Strip cover only 15% to 20% of their needs.

He warned that continued shortages would further worsen conditions for patients and the wounded in Gaza, calling for the establishment of a medical and humanitarian corridor to ensure the regular entry of medicines and medical supplies and to facilitate the evacuation of patients requiring treatment outside the Gaza Strip.

Y.S