War on Gaza: Palestinian artist Fathi Ghaben dies after being denied exit to seek treatment
Fathi Ghaben, one of Gaza's most prominent artists, has died after being denied the opportunity to travel to seek medical treatment by Israeli authorities.
Ghaben suffered from severe chest and lung problems, and the lack of medicines and oxygen in Gaza had made it impossible for him to get treatment inside the besieged enclave.
Israeli authorities did not allow him to leave to seek medical treatment elsewhere.
Ghaben's art was known for its powerful expression of the Palestinian struggle for the right of return to their homeland.
"Ghaben’s departure constitutes a loss to Palestinian art," said the Palestinian Ministry of Culture in a statement.
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Ghaben previously worked as an adviser to the ministry and supported many other Palestinian artists.
Israel's bombardment of Gaza has left the enclave's healthcare system in tatters.
Those suffering from longterm or terminal health conditions have been left in a particularly precarious condition.
At least 10,000 Palestinians with cancer in Gaza have been left waiting to get out for treatment.
Gaza's health ministry said the death toll from Israel's war on the enclave reached 29,782 on Monday, with another 70,043 Palestinians wounded.
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