A spokesperson for the World Health Organization emphasized the urgent need to establish a humanitarian corridor to deliver critical medical supplies into the Gaza Strip. The statement underscored that essential items are needed to sustain life-saving care for civilians amid ongoing conflict. The WHO noted it is coordinating with partner organizations to address supply shortages and has allocated funds to purchase medical provisions intended to treat hundreds of patients in the near term. This aid push comes as frontline hospitals report that they are already straining under limited resources and rising patient demand. [citation: WHO]
As the situation unfolds, reports indicate that seven of the Gaza Strip’s largest hospitals have exhausted much of their stockpiles. Medical teams are managing with what remains while trying to prioritize the most urgent cases. International partners are stepping in to support logistics and clinical care, with the WHO confirming a strategic plan to distribute essential medicines, protective gear, and life-sustaining consumables. The effort aims to stabilize the hospitals’ capacity to respond to acute injuries and a broad spectrum of medical needs during the crisis. [citation: WHO and partners]
On 7 October, hostilities intensified as Hamas forces launched Operation Al Aqsa Flood, firing thousands of rockets toward Israel. In response, the Israeli Defense Forces initiated an operation described as Iron Swords, marking a broad military campaign. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the situation as a state of war and signaled that the country would undertake a sustained and comprehensive military effort. [citation: IDF; Israeli government statements]
Earlier remarks from the Israeli leadership indicated a massive, unprecedented attack intended to neutralize threats and degrade operational capabilities of militant groups. The evolving conflict continues to affect civilians, humanitarian workers, and patients in the region, highlighting the critical need for safe corridors, medical supply chains, and coordinated international relief efforts. [citation: Israeli government records]