Laboratories at Gaza’s al-Shifa hospital and its blood bank experienced a critical shutdown on Tuesday following a power blackout, according to a doctor on-site.
In a video released by the Gaza-based Palestinian Ministry of Health, the doctor expressed concern that blood units may have been compromised due to the blackout.
Hamas alleges that approximately 650 patients and 5,000 to 7,000 civilians are trapped within the hospital grounds, facing constant threats from Israeli snipers and drones. Against a backdrop of fuel, water, and supply shortages, Hamas reports that 40 patients have succumbed to their conditions in recent days.
The Israeli military responded on Wednesday, stating, “We can confirm that incubators, baby food, and medical supplies brought by IDF tanks from Israel have successfully reached the Shifa hospital. Our medical teams and Arabic-speaking soldiers are on the ground to ensure that these supplies reach those in need.”
Despite Israel’s offer to send portable incubators, Palestinians within the hospital reportedly dug a mass grave on Tuesday to bury patients who had passed away. Gaza’s health ministry spokesman, Qidra, mentioned that there was no plan in place to evacuate infants.
Reuters reported that, at present, it is unable to independently verify the situation at Al Shifa.
