Rafah’s Last Fully Operational Hospital Overwhelmed by Surge in Injuries

The Red Cross Field Hospital in Rafah, Gaza, is grappling with an overwhelming influx of injuries, as the region’s healthcare system teeters on the edge of collapse. Over the past month, the 60-bed hospital has been operating beyond its maximum capacity, treating over 2,200 patients injured by gunfire in more than 21 mass casualty incidents.

The surge in injuries is linked to aid distribution sites, where many victims, including toddlers, teenagers, and elderly individuals, were reportedly trying to secure food or aid for their families. Hospital staff have recorded over 200 deaths in this period, a number that surpasses the total from all mass casualty events in the previous year.

To manage the crisis, hospital staff have taken on additional roles. Physiotherapists are assisting nurses with wound care, cleaners are serving as orderlies, and midwives are providing palliative care to those who are unlikely to survive.

Since its opening, the Red Cross Field Hospital has conducted over 100,000 consultations and performed more than 4,600 surgical procedures. However, the relentless tide of injuries continues to strain resources, leaving the hospital struggling to meet the overwhelming demand.

The Red Cross Field Hospital in Rafah, Gaza, is overwhelmed by a surge in injuries, mostly caused by gunfire at aid distribution sites. The hospital, the last fully operational facility in the area, has treated over 2,200 patients in the past month, with staff taking on additional roles to manage the crisis.