Al-Ahli Arab Hospital still stands as a beacon of hope despite the obstacles that continue to thwart its ability to care for people in the north of Gaza. 

In its latest battle to stay open, the hospital was ordered to close on 7th July when the Israel Defence Force ordered Palestinians to evacuate several areas—forcing all patients, staff and vulnerable people to leave. 

With much relief, four days later the Diocese of Jerusalem reported that despite an increase in military activity in the area, the hospital was able to reopen.

Although most patients have not yet made the hazardous journey back to the hospital, ‘our remarkable staff were able to perform eight surgeries in the day.’

The courage and dedication of the staff are profound, and their ability to adjust to tenuous and changing circumstances is evident in all they have achieved. 

Remarkably, since the conflict began in October 2023, staff have taken care of more than 30,000 people. For a hospital with just 50 beds, this is a considerable number. They have now increased to 80 beds, opening the hospital chapel and library to accommodate the extra patients. They have gone from three operating theatres to five, and the small emergency department has expanded, with the physical therapy department and hospital yards turned into triage and emergency units. Medical supplies are limited; sometimes medical staff need to use vinegar instead of sterilisation solutions. When there is no anaesthesia, doctors must still perform surgeries. 

In cooperation with the Jerusalem Princess Basma Centre, the hospital has opened a small unit to support people living with disabilities, providing physical therapy treatment and care for cerebral palsy patients and their families. Staff have also commenced providing psychosocial support for children living in southern Gaza and have opened a clinic in the city of Khan Yunis where they care for approximately 200 patients.

Food in Gaza is incredibly scarce, and famine is imminent. People are unable to work, and prices are highly inflated. While the situation is dire, al-Ahli Arab Hospital and its staff are providing hope and healing in the chaos. We ask that you continue to pray for the strength and safety of all staff, for the safety and healing of all patients and those who shelter within the hospital walls, and for access to food and medical equipment. Most importantly, we ask that you pray for peace.