Israeli Military Operations Cause Alarming Rise in Disabilities in Gaza
The Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor (Euro-Med) has reported that ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza are resulting in approximately 30 Palestinians acquiring disabilities each day, exacerbating a severe humanitarian crisis, reports 24brussels.
Over the past 22 months of conflict, around 21,000 Palestinians have suffered permanent or temporary disabilities, marking a 35 percent increase compared to figures prior to the war. The organization raised concerns about the conditions faced by dozens of disabled individuals detained by the Israeli military, who reportedly endure life-threatening conditions and torture, with their current whereabouts unknown.
Euro-Med highlighted that the Israeli army has utilized explosive weapons in populated areas, attacked medical facilities, and hindered rescue operations for those trapped under debris. This strategy has resulted in significant injuries and amputations, leading Euro-Med to categorize the increase in disabilities as a deliberate method of inflicting harm on the Palestinian population, contributing to what they describe as a collective genocidal campaign.
Children are among the most affected demographic. UNICEF has noted that thousands of Gazan children have acquired disabilities from injuries inflicted by explosive weapons since the escalation of hostilities began on October 7, 2023. Before this conflict, there were already 98,000 children living with various disabilities in Gaza.
Since October 7, 2023, lethal violence has claimed the lives of at least 61,944 Palestinians, while 155,886 have sustained injuries. The humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by an Israeli blockade that restricts the entry of essential aid, further compounding the challenges faced by the population, particularly those with disabilities.
The Global Protection Cluster, a coalition involved in coordinating protection efforts during crises, has stressed that individuals with disabilities in Gaza encounter immense and ongoing challenges and require continuous support to fulfill their basic needs.
Euro-Med’s findings highlight the humanitarian dimensions of the Gaza conflict, revealing the profound and ongoing impact on civilians, especially children and people living with disabilities, and emphasizing the urgent need for international humanitarian intervention.
