(MENAFN) Gaza’s Health Ministry reported on Wednesday that around 6,000 residents who have lost limbs due to the ongoing Israeli war urgently require long-term rehabilitation, highlighting severe and lasting humanitarian impacts for thousands of families.

In a statement issued on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the ministry described the situation as “shocking,” noting that 25% of amputations involve children, leaving them with permanent disabilities at a young age.

The ministry stressed that thousands of injured civilians and their families are enduring profound suffering, emphasizing the critical need for sustained physical rehabilitation, as well as psychological and social support services. It called on international organizations to prioritize care for amputees and enhance access to specialized rehabilitation programs.

In September, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) reported that Gaza now has the highest number of child amputees per capita worldwide since the start of the conflict.

Since October 2023, reports indicate that over 70,000 people—mostly women and children—have been killed in Gaza, with more than 171,000 injured, leaving large parts of the enclave in ruins. A ceasefire took effect on October 10, temporarily halting hostilities.

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