Fact Check: "Only 17 of Gaza's 36 hospitals are functional amid crisis."
What We Know
The claim that "only 17 of Gaza's 36 hospitals are functional" is supported by multiple credible sources. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), as of June 2025, only 17 out of 36 hospitals in Gaza are currently partially functional, with just five of these being major referral facilities that account for 75% of the hospital beds in the region (WHO). The situation has been exacerbated by ongoing conflict, leading to a significant decline in the operational capacity of healthcare facilities. Reports indicate that there are no hospitals functioning in northern Gaza, and the remaining hospitals are operating above their capacity due to an influx of patients with life-threatening injuries and a critical shortage of essential medical supplies (WHO).
Additionally, a guest editorial published in the East Mediterranean Health Journal notes that by January 2025, only 18 hospitals remained partially functional, highlighting the severe impact of the conflict on healthcare infrastructure in Gaza (Abuelaish & Musani). The systematic attacks on healthcare facilities and the blockade have led to a humanitarian crisis, with many hospitals unable to meet the needs of the population (WHO).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim comes primarily from reputable health organizations, including the WHO, which has a long-standing presence in the region and a mandate to monitor health conditions globally. The WHO's reports are based on systematic assessments and are generally considered reliable due to their rigorous methodology and the organization's expertise in health emergencies.
The editorial by Abuelaish and Musani also provides a contextual understanding of the healthcare crisis in Gaza, noting that the health system has been under strain for years, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict and blockade (Abuelaish & Musani). This source, authored by experts in global health, adds credibility to the claim by providing historical context and data regarding the operational status of hospitals.
However, it is important to consider the potential for bias in reporting on such sensitive topics. While the WHO and other health organizations strive for objectivity, their reports may be influenced by the political and humanitarian context in which they operate. Nonetheless, the consistency of the data across multiple reports strengthens the reliability of the claim.
Conclusion
Based on the evidence presented, the claim that "only 17 of Gaza's 36 hospitals are functional amid crisis" is True. The data from the WHO and corroborating sources indicate a significant deterioration of healthcare infrastructure in Gaza, with only a fraction of hospitals remaining operational amid severe shortages of medical supplies and ongoing conflict.
