Thousands seek refuge in Gaza hospitals, aid workers say – “People are desperate”

Thousands seek refuge in Gaza hospitals aid workers say

The situation in Gaza’s hospitals is severely overburdened as thousands of people seek refuge in the hospitals, says the Finnish Red Cross’s director of international aid operations.

Director of international aid activities of the Finnish Red Cross Tiina Saarikoski tells that the central office of the Palestinian Red Crescent has been in contact with its aid workers and volunteers in Gaza and they are fine.

According to information received by Saarikoski, the night in Gaza has been very difficult. Israel continued its heavy attack with both airstrikes and ground forces.

According to Saarikoski, there are about 30 ambulances operated by the Red Crescent in the Gaza Strip, but it has been difficult to alert them, as telephone connections and alarm systems have been cut.

– The situation, especially in Gaza City, is really difficult. The Red Crescent runs two heavily overburdened hospitals there, where in addition to wounded patients, there are thousands of people seeking refuge, says Saarikoski.

According to Saarikoski, the Palestinian Red Crescent estimates that there are a total of 12,000 people in these hospitals.

– Everyone can understand that the hospital’s premises and facilities are not meant for this. But people are desperate and seek refuge where they feel they can get it, says Tiina Saarikoski.

yl-01