The only orthopedic doctor serving northern Gaza, Dr. Said Joudah, was martyred on Thursday following a direct strike by an Israeli drone, marking yet another blow to the region’s already devastated healthcare system.

The death toll from the ongoing attacks in Gaza has now reached 44,835, with over 106,000 individuals injured.

Al-Awda Hospital in northern Gaza confirmed Dr. Joudah’s martyrdom, reporting that he was fatally shot in the head by an Israeli sniper while on his way to treat patients. The Ministry of Health in Gaza stated that Dr. Joudah was en route from Kamal Adwan Hospital to Al-Awda Hospital when an Israeli “Quadcopter” drone targeted him directly. This follows an earlier injury he sustained two weeks ago, after which he continued to serve the injured despite his condition.

Dr. Joudah’s death brings the number of martyrs in Gaza’s health sector to 1,057 since the onset of the conflict. The Ministry of Health condemned the deliberate targeting of medical personnel and facilities, urging international and human rights organizations to protect health workers fulfilling their humanitarian duties.

According to the Ministry of Health, the total number of martyrs in Gaza since October 7, 2023, has reached 44,835, with 106,356 people injured, many suffering critical wounds. On Thursday alone, Israeli forces committed three new massacres targeting displaced families and civilians, resulting in dozens of deaths and injuries, primarily among women and children.

Hospitals in Gaza treated 30 martyrs and 99 injured individuals in the past 24 hours. Rescue teams reported that many victims remain trapped under rubble or in inaccessible areas due to ongoing bombardments and a lack of resources.

The Ministry of Health has called for global solidarity from medical professionals and urgent intervention by international bodies to stop the targeting of health infrastructure. It stressed the critical need for protection of hospitals, healthcare workers, and civilians in Gaza.

As the humanitarian crisis deepens, the situation in Gaza continues to draw condemnation and appeals for action from around the world. (ILKHA)