Since the war between Israel and Hamas began in May 2021, the situation in Gaza has been catastrophic. Thousands of Palestinians have been injured in the violence, both physically and mentally. Until now, there had been little opportunity for those suffering to escape the conflict and receive medical attention elsewhere.
However, this week, foreign nationals and injured Palestinians have been granted permission to leave Gaza for the first time since the war began. It is being arranged with the cooperation of the Red Cross, UN agencies, and other international organizations in order to provide much-needed medical care to those in need.
Although this is an important step in providing relief to those suffering in Gaza, it is not yet clear how many people will be able to leave and how long they will be allowed to stay in other countries. Nor is it known what other assistance those able to flee may receive.
Still, this is a significant step forward in relieving some of the suffering of those still in Gaza. The El-Hikma Hospital in Cairo, for instance, has already received dozens of patients for medical treatment since last week.
It is to be hoped that many more foreign nationals and injured Palestinians will be granted this opportunity to escape the violence in Gaza, as many more are in dire need of medical care and a safe haven from the conflict. It is also to be hoped that international organizations will provide the necessary assistance to ensure that those who flee receive the care and support they deserve.