GAZA, July 21 (Xinhua) -- A medical official in the Gaza Strip expressed concern Tuesday over a sharp rise in miscarriages in the enclave, with 4,000 cases recorded in the first half of 2026.
Bassam Zaqout, director of medical relief in the enclave, said in a radio interview that the unprecedented increase is driven by harsh living conditions, including pregnant women traveling on unpaved roads in overcrowded and unsafe transport, constant fear of Israeli bombardment, sleeping on the ground, and the lack of hot water and hygiene supplies, in addition to the spread of skin diseases and unsanitary conditions within displacement camps.
Zaqout warned that the health crisis is worsening due to a severe shortage of medicines, equipment, and medical supplies, with the health sector operating in emergency mode due to the restrictions and blockade on the entry of essential resources, diagnostic equipment, and laboratory reagents.
He also reported a widespread outbreak of epidemics and viral diseases, particularly among the displaced. Thousands of chickenpox cases are recorded weekly, alongside a rise in respiratory infections and watery diarrhea from contaminated water.
Zaqout added that the reduced flow of relief aid, food supplies, and hygiene kits in recent months has further exacerbated conditions in overcrowded displacement camps.
