gaza oxygen stations
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Gaza oxygen stations face shutdown

At least 22 of Gaza’s 34 oxygen stations have stopped operating, the Palestinian Health Ministry said Saturday, warning that the remaining facilities could also shut down because of the Israeli blockade and a critical shortage of spare parts.

The ministry said the 12 functioning stations are operating under severe technical and mechanical strain. Frequent breakdowns and a lack of maintenance have pushed the facilities beyond their normal capacity, making it increasingly difficult to supply oxygen to hospitals and other healthcare providers.

Only four of the 30 machines used to refill oxygen cylinders remain operational, according to the ministry. It warned that these machines could fail at any time because engineering teams lack the parts and equipment needed for emergency repairs.

The ministry stressed that oxygen supplies are essential for life-saving hospital departments and patients receiving treatment at home. It urged the immediate opening of channels to allow spare parts, technical equipment and new oxygen stations to enter Gaza.

The warning follows a statement by Doctors Without Borders (MSF) on August 12, which said Israeli authorities continued to restrict the entry of engine oil and spare parts needed for hospital generators, ambulances and other critical services.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said in its latest report that Kerem Shalom remains the only operational crossing for goods entering Gaza, while restrictions remain on several essential supplies and types of equipment.

The World Health Organisation, in data published on August 11 covering the period through July 31, also reported severe shortages of healthcare resources and services across Gaza’s medical facilities.

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