Gaza patients fear losing care as Israeli ban threatens MSF

(MENAFN) At Gaza’s Nasser Hospital, wards remain crowded with patients who worry they will be left without treatment if Doctors Without Borders (MSF) is forced to leave under an Israeli ban set to take effect in March.

Israel announced last month that 37 aid organizations, including MSF, would be barred from operating in Gaza beginning March 1, citing their failure to provide detailed information about Palestinian staff. The ministry overseeing NGO registrations accused two MSF employees of ties to Hamas and Islamic Jihad—claims MSF strongly rejects.

The decision has drawn international criticism, with humanitarian groups warning that it could severely disrupt already scarce medical and food supplies after more than two years of war.

Ten year old Adam Asfour, recovering from shrapnel wounds with his arm pinned by metal rods, said MSF had supported patients throughout the conflict. “When I heard it was possible they would stop providing services, it made me very sad,” he told AFP.

Inside Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, one of the few facilities still functioning, MSF staff continue treating children with burns, chronic illnesses, and war injuries. But their future presence is uncertain.

For families like Fayrouz Barhoum’s, the thought is unbearable. Her 18 month old grandson Joud, who suffered facial burns after boiling water spilled in their shelter, has improved under MSF care. “The scarring on his face has largely diminished. We need continuity of care,” she said.

Despite the looming ban, MSF officials have pledged to keep working as long as possible.

MENAFN12012026000045017640ID1110585516