Critics Say Israel Blocks Medical Care for 1,134 Child Amputees in Gaza

Israel is facing criticism for limiting medical evacuations from Gaza. The Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor claims that 1,134 Palestinian children who have had limb amputations cannot access treatment outside the region.

The organization warns that these restrictions could lead to long-term health issues for the children. They may struggle to get specialized rehabilitation, prosthetic limbs, and essential follow-up care. The situation highlights a broader crisis in Gaza’s healthcare system, which has been damaged and lacks necessary medical supplies.

According to the World Health Organization, from September 2024 to May 2026, 2,277 individuals who underwent amputations were evaluated for treatment. Out of these, only 502 received prosthetic limbs, which included both children and adults. The lack of qualified specialists in Gaza complicates matters further, with only eight certified professionals available for prosthetics and orthotics.

Restrictions on importing equipment have made it hard to create and maintain artificial limbs. The Euro-Med organization shared the story of Fidaa Ahmad Al-Shaer, whose 11-year-old son, Mousa, lost his right hand due to an Israeli artillery shell. He also suffered spinal cord damage and needs further surgery and rehabilitation, but his family cannot arrange for him to travel for specialized care.

Another child, eight-year-old Sila, lost both her feet after an attack on her family’s tent. Doctors had to amputate after efforts to save her feet failed. Euro-Med warns that without proper prosthetics and rehabilitation, these children may experience chronic pain, repeated injuries, and psychological distress as they grow up.

The organization is calling on the international community to urge Israel to lift restrictions on medical evacuations. They want to ensure that essential rehabilitation equipment and prosthetic parts can enter Gaza and that children needing specialized treatment can travel abroad.