'The situation is catastrophic, really catastrophic': Palestinian doctor in Khan Younis

Dr Ahmed Mugrabi, head of the plastic reconstructive surgery department at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, spoke to Middle East Eye on Tuesday. He gave a glimpse of the chaos resulting from the Israeli blockade of the city.

"We have got news today from the Israeli army to evacuate block number 107. This block actually contains schools, hospitals and other houses," said Mugrabi.

Israel divided the besiged Gaza Strip in blocks, instructing Palestinians to move from one block to another. The measures, however, give civilians no measure of protection. 

"People actually were trying to evacuate this block but they couldn't. All over and around me, explosions, gunshot can be heard, and is being fired over our heads. People couldn't evacuate because it wasn't safe," said Mugrabi. 

"There is no way to escape and nowhere to evacuate to. And they all got ordered to evacuate this block. We are trying to find medical staff but they couldn't come to the hospital. We are very few in the hospital and there are dozens of people who are wounded and we need to look after," he said.

"The situation is catastrophic, really catastrophic. If anybody can really help us as medical personnel. I really hope everyone will hear my voice. I can't begin to explain to you what a real disaster the situation here is. Please tell the Israelis we are not a target. The hospital is not a target. Please!," he added.