Thousands face worsening illness after closure of key crossing halts medical evacuations.
Thousands face worsening illness after closure of key crossing halts medical evacuations for families waiting for treatment abroad.
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Gaza City, the Gaza Strip – On February 28, Lama Abu Reida was just a few hours away from what she hoped would change the fate of her sick infant daughter, Alma.
The family had finally been informed that the baby girl – fewer than five months old and unable to breathe without an oxygen machine – was eligible for medical evacuation.
Israeli restrictions mean only five Palestinians allowed to leave Gaza for treatment via Rafah crossing on first day.
Dozen Palestinians allowed to re-enter but critical patients continue to be prevented from receiving life-saving care.
The Rafah crossing’s pilot opening begins amid confusion as Gaza’s patients face unclear criteria, limited travel slots.
Rafah crossing will reportedly operate for six hours a day and allow only 150 patients to exit into Egypt for care.
Dozen Palestinians allowed to re-enter but critical patients continue to be prevented from receiving life-saving care.
Twenty-five more Palestinians arrive in Gaza as 13 patients in need of treatment to begin evacuations through Rafah.
