Why Palestinian doctors are being barred from entering Gaza

Doctors from nations around the world have been traveling to Gaza and donating their skills to help the injured and sick. The situation is critical for pregnant women, individuals with chronic illnesses and children at risk from waterborne diseases. The World Health Organization reports more than 10,000 people need to receive specialized medical care outside of Gaza.

But now, some doctors say they are being denied entry to the area by Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories or COGAT. Many of the doctors barred from entering are of Palestinian origin or heritage. One of these doctors who has been denied entry by Israel is intensive care unit Dr. Majdi Hamarshi, chairman of the board of directors of the Palestinian American Medical Association.

We reached out to the World Health Organization but haven’t received a response.

Following the broadcast of the segment, COGAT shared a response that read in part: "Contrary to claims, and as part of providing medical aid to the Gaza Strip, efforts are also being made to bring in medical teams and personnel replacements to benefit the hospitals. As part of these efforts, over 1,000 doctors and humanitarian teams have been brought in over the past few months to replace staff in hospitals, shelters, and essential facilities of the international community. In this context we will emphasize: Israel allows the entry of medical teams and foreign workers from the international community in accordance with security considerations."

Click here for more coverage and different points of view.