Gaza Herald _ American media reports said that Israeli policies are preventing children in Gaza from receiving basic cold medications, worsening an already severe healthcare crisis in the territory.
According to a report by the Los Angeles Times, Israeli authorities have blocked the entry of certain cold medicines for children, claiming that glycerin, one of the ingredients in the medication, could potentially be used by Palestinian resistance groups to manufacture weapons.
However, the report notes that there is no evidence showing that such medicines could realistically be used for military purposes.
Thousands of Medicines Left Unused
As a result of these restrictions, around 15,000 boxes of cold medicine and other essential pediatric treatments have remained stuck in Gaza warehouses for more than five months, waiting for Israeli approval that appears unlikely to arrive anytime soon.
The report said Israeli officials have classified cold medicines as a potential “dual-use” item, despite the lack of scientific proof that their ingredients could be extracted and repurposed for weapons production.
Lack of Clear Guidelines for Aid Groups
Humanitarian organizations have also struggled with the lack of clear guidelines from Israeli authorities regarding acceptable levels of glycerin in medical products.
Without clear thresholds, aid groups say they are unable to import alternative medicines that could safely replace the restricted products, further complicating efforts to provide basic healthcare to children.
Complex Aid System Blocking Relief
The report also highlights a broader system of restrictions that complicates the delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza, even when it involves life-saving supplies.
Independent human rights activist Amed Khan said he has faced major obstacles trying to deliver medical supplies, food, and tents into the territory due to constantly changing and complex Israeli regulations.
Policies Deepen Humanitarian Suffering
Some items, including tents and protective equipment, have also reportedly been restricted under claims they could be used for military purposes, despite their clear humanitarian function.
The report concludes that these policies have deepened the suffering of Palestinian families and hindered the work of civil society organizations, contributing to a humanitarian crisis whose scale continues to grow across Gaza.
