A Gaza professor is slowly dying from cancer as Israel's siege restricts essential medicines and life-saving treatments. Kholoud Abu Sahmoud, diagnosed nine months ago, awaits urgent medical evacuation for treatment unavailable in the war-ravaged enclave.
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Gaza professor denied cancer treatment amid Israeli siege
IN SHORT
A Gaza professor is slowly dying from cancer as Israel's siege restricts essential medicines and life-saving treatments. Kholoud Abu Sahmoud, diagnosed nine months ago, awaits urgent medical evacuation for treatment unavailable in the war-ravaged enclave.
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Frequently asked questions
Kholoud Abu Sahmoud is suffering from liver cancer. She has undergone chemotherapy, but the available drugs in Gaza were not suitable for her condition.
Israel's siege restricts the entry of essential medicines and life-saving treatments into Gaza. Furthermore, Abu Sahmoud requires specialized treatment that is unavailable in the enclave and is waiting for medical evacuation.
Chemotherapy treatment for several types of cancer has largely halted due to critical shortages of specialized oncology medicines. Thousands of cancer patients are awaiting referrals and permission to leave Gaza for treatment.
Since Rafah crossing reopened in February, only 1,655 patients have been evacuated. Over 1,570 people have died while waiting for permission to leave since October 2023.
What Happens Next
01Patients continue to await permission for medical evacuation from Gaza.
02The availability of specialized oncology medicines in Gaza remains critical.