Thousands of Patients Await Medical Evacuation in Gaza Despite Ceasefire
Despite the ceasefire reached following Israeli attacks, more than 20,000 critically ill and injured patients in Gaza are awaiting emergency medical evacuation due to the continued closure of border crossings.
As the third year of Israeli attacks in Gaza passes, thousands of patients and the injured are struggling between life and death due to restrictions at border crossings and reasons for keeping them closed, despite the ceasefire on October 10, 2025.
Patients Awaiting Evacuation
Between 20,000 and 22,000 critically ill and injured patients and wounded individuals in Gaza, including cancer patients and children, are waiting for border crossings to open for emergency medical evacuation. Although the Rafah Border Crossing has been partially opened, Israeli security approvals and quota applications are stalling the process.
Declining Number of Departures
According to Ministry of Health data, the number of patients and injured who managed to leave between February 2 and September 2, 2026, remained at only 2,480. This data shows that the daily targets set in the ceasefire agreement are falling far short.
Loss of Life and Increasing Pressure
Al-Shifa Hospital Director Mohammed Abu Salmiya reported that more than 1,344 Palestinians lost their lives while waiting for treatment from the beginning of the ceasefire until early September. Authorities are calling for international pressure against the reduction of exit permits.