Nasser Hospital Surgeon Faces Challenges Amidst Raid
**Dr. Khaled al-Serr, a dedicated surgeon at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, is facing grave challenges amidst recent events.**
It has been two days since Dr. Khaled al-Serr’s family and colleagues last heard from him. The tension escalated when Israel’s military surrounded Nasser Hospital, where Dr. Serr diligently served. Tragically, amidst the chaos, one patient lost their life, and six others sustained injuries due to military gunfire before the hospital was breached.
Challenges at Nasser Hospital
For the past three weeks, Nasser Hospital has been grappling with severe resource shortages, hindering the transfer of patients in need of specialized care to other medical facilities. Dr. Serr, a general surgeon, resorted to seeking guidance from specialist colleagues via WhatsApp due to the lack of resources. His messages grew increasingly desperate, highlighting the critical situation within the hospital. He expressed concerns about the limited access to the ICU and the imminent risk of ventilator failure, endangering the lives of six patients relying on respiratory support.
Urgent Plea for Help
Dr. Serr’s distressing plea was further emphasized when he shared a video depicting the tragic loss of an ICU patient due to a power outage. He grimly stated that six more patients faced a similar fate. This heartbreaking message marked his final communication with his colleagues.
By Saturday evening, concerned colleagues from Healthcare Workers Watch – Palestine, Gaza Medic Voices, and Health Workers 4 Palestine issued a joint statement, demanding the immediate release of Dr. Khaled Al Serr. The statement highlighted his unwavering dedication to his patients, shedding light on his selfless efforts to provide care under dire circumstances.
Medical Staff Detained
Reports emerged that Israeli forces had detained a significant number of medical staff at Nasser Hospital. The World Health Organization (WHO) expressed deep concern over the chaotic situation at the hospital, emphasizing its crucial role in the southern Gaza health system. WHO stressed the importance of safeguarding hospitals as vital healthcare facilities, protected under international laws of war.
Ongoing Uncertainty
Despite inquiries to the Israeli military regarding the detained medical personnel, including Dr. Serr, no official response has been provided. The uncertainty surrounding Dr. Serr’s well-being and the safety of medical staff at Nasser Hospital remains a pressing concern, drawing international attention to the urgent need for resolution in this distressing situation.
