Israeli Authorities to Deport Dozens of Gazan Patients Receiving Treatment in East Jerusalem
Israeli authorities are set to deport approximately 89 Gazan patients and their companions from hospitals in occupied East Jerusalem back to Gaza next week, despite warnings from medical professionals that doing so could be a death sentence given the enclave’s decimated healthcare system.
Among those facing deportation is 16-year-old Yamen Al-Najjar, who suffers from a rare bleeding disorder and has been receiving treatment in East Jerusalem since before the October 7th attacks. His mother, Haifa Al-Najjar, expressed desperation, stating, “All my hard work will vanish before my eyes. I can’t comprehend how a sick child is going to be sent back to a disaster-stricken area… This is a death sentence for my son.” She has been seeking medical evacuation to a third country for two years, with WHO approval, but has been unable to secure a host nation. The move comes as Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure remains largely collapsed, with the World Health Organization reporting that 94% of hospitals have been damaged or destroyed.
The patients range in age from newborns to an 85-year-old, and while some have reportedly agreed to return, the majority are being sent against their will. Nafez Al Qahwaji, a kidney failure patient requiring dialysis, said, “Why do they want to throw me to hell, I will die there in two days.” Physicians for Human Rights Israel (PHRI) condemned the decision, asserting Israel’s obligation under international law to provide continued care, especially considering its role in destroying Gaza’s medical facilities. You can read more about international humanitarian law and healthcare here. This situation highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the challenges faced by those seeking medical care.
The Israeli Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) has not yet responded to requests for comment. Hospital authorities anticipate the transfers will begin early next week, echoing similar threats made in March 2024 that were temporarily halted by Israel’s Supreme Court following legal challenges.
