Gaza: ‘She survived the bombing, but not the blockade’

Gaza residents Suhaila al-Mabhouh and her husband Sami al-Mabhouh were among those who lost their lives, despite surviving the initial bombing and ceasefire. The 60-year-old mother of three fell ill and was diagnosed with cancer, but was unable to receive treatment due to the Israeli blockade. Her husband took her to various hospitals in Gaza, but the medical facilities were overwhelmed and unable to provide the necessary care.

Sami and Suhaila eventually traveled to Deir al-Balah, hoping to find treatment at a private hospital, but the journey was difficult due to scarce transportation. By the time they arrived, Suhaila's health had deteriorated severely, and she could no longer sit up or walk. Within two weeks, she secured a medical referral to travel abroad for treatment, but was forced to wait alongside over 20,000 other patients for Israeli permission to leave Gaza.

Tens of thousands of patients cannot access the examinations and treatment they urgently need due to the severely damaged health sector. Millions of Gaza residents remain in makeshift tents or severely damaged buildings, exposing them to the elements and the constant threat of collapse. The ongoing Israeli blockade and bombardment have exacerbated the deadly conditions in Gaza, leaving residents with no refuge from death.