In an effort to address the critical humanitarian situation in Gaza, Denmark has decided to donate five million Danish kroner to a new field hospital. This hospital is expected to accommodate between 200 and 250 patients daily. The donation comes at a time when the need for medical assistance is immense in the region, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The field hospital, which will be established and operated by the International Red Cross, will have 60 beds and facilities for the treatment of both physical injuries and psychological trauma. Denmark’s contribution also includes support for staff, tents, and a water purification system to ensure access to clean drinking water.
“The social infrastructure in Gaza has collapsed, and the healthcare system has been severely depleted,” says Dan Jørgensen, Minister for Development Cooperation and Global Climate Policy. “The people in Gaza need help here and now. We are trying to intervene and alleviate the situation with this field hospital.”
The situation in Gaza is critical, with only 12 out of 36 hospitals partially operational, and 71 percent of health centers out of service. The ongoing conflict has significantly worsened living conditions for the population. Dan Jørgensen acknowledges that the establishment of the field hospital is only part of the solution and emphasizes that Denmark, along with the EU and other international partners, will continue to push for a change in the situation, especially in response to Israel’s actions in the area.
“Right now, we are in a situation where Israel has not yielded to international pressure,” says Jørgensen. “It is deeply tragic. We are doing what we can to help in various ways, and the latest assistance comes in the form of a field hospital.”
This initiative is a testament to Denmark’s continued commitment to international humanitarian efforts and underscores the need for ongoing international attention and support for Gaza.