Gaza Health Ministry Warns of Epidemic Risk as Conflict With Israel Continues

The Health Ministry of the Hamas-run government in the Gaza Strip issued a warning on Tuesday about the potential for a major epidemic in the region due to the ongoing conflict with Israel. Spokesperson Ashraf al-Qedra stated that as many as 3,150 cases of various diseases were recorded in a single day following the October 7 terrorist offensive Hamas launched against Israeli border towns and villages and the subsequent reprisal airstrikes by Israel. Most cases were reported among children and included conditions such as diarrhea, food poisoning, skin issues, scabies, and bronchial infections.

Al-Qedra cited overcrowding in shelters, poor access to clean water, and inadequate personal hygiene as factors contributing to the rising incidence of diseases. He urged the international community to step in and restore essential services such as water, electricity, and sanitation to help curb the spread of illnesses.

Since October 7, both sides have seen significant casualties—more than 6,000 Palestinians in Gaza and over 1,400 Israelis and foreign nationals in Israel have been killed.