Medical Professionals and Journalists Take on Essential Roles to Tackle Gaza's Humanitarian Crisis

Get to know the the frontline heroes of the war in Gaza – specifically, the dedicated doctors and journalists tirelessly working around the clock to save lives.

By NATALIE KEBBE

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Motaz Azaiza, Photographer

Motaz, a Gaza native and photographer, conveys a desperate plea in a UNRWA video on his Instagram with over nine million followers. Risking his life, he captures the harrowing realities of the conflict, from widespread neighborhood destruction to poignant moments like cradling a lifeless baby. His pre-conflict work highlighted the beauty of Palestinian daily life. Amid the current crisis, Motaz urges global assistance for medical supplies and sustenance, emphasizing the urgency for action beyond passive observation. In the face of uncertainty about his survival, he implores viewers to contribute and pray for Gaza.

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Plestia Alaqad, Journalist

At Al Nassar Hospital, journalist Plestia Alaqad describes a critical situation with eighteen premature babies. With the hospital operating for the next 48 hours, challenges arise due to incubators relying on scarce electricity and fuel. Previously leading the English Media Club at Press House, Alaqad shared joyful experiences. Expressing sorrow over minimal aid, she questions the world's delayed response, emphasizing the toll on journalists, with at least 23 casualties.

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Youmna El-Qunsol, Journalist

Journalist Youmna El-Qunsol, reports from Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, the refuge for thousands of families who lost their homes to bombings. The hospital, struggling with a surge in cases, faces challenges managing the overwhelming number of patients due to shortages in electricity, beds, and even water. Dr. Al Warda, a surgeon, emphasizes the difficulties in providing proper medical treatment, especially for the many children affected. El-Qunsol highlights the stark humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for assistance.

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Dr Ghassan Abu-Sittah, Surgeon

Dr. Ghassan Abu-Sittah, a British Palestinian volunteer with Doctors Without Borders, is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon. The organization delivers emergency medical humanitarian care in conflict, epidemics, disasters, or healthcare exclusion, prioritizing independence, impartiality, and neutrality. Dr. Abu-Sittah rose to prominence in Palestine through viral videos, including one revealing harsh conditions at Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. An explosion caused fallen ceilings, piles of children's bodies, both deceased and wounded, and instances of amputation.

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Mohammed Al Ghoula, Doctor

Dr. Mohammed Al Ghoula, in the aftermath of the October 17 explosion at Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City, conveyed to The New York Times an unprecedented experience, witnessing bodies and body parts of children and women for the first time. The profound impact has left a lasting effect. Despite being regarded as safe havens by Palestinians, Gaza's hospitals have tragically transformed into graveyards.