19.07.2024
‘Al Ahli Arab Hospital remains a beacon of hope’ – Diocese of Jerusalem Confirms Reopening
Al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City has reopened, the Diocese of Jerusalem has announced. The Diocese, which runs the only Christian hospital in Gaza, reported that on July 7 the hospital had been compelled to close when the Israeli army declared the area around it a ‘red zone’ and required the evacuation of staff, patients and all who sheltered in the grounds and building.
However, in a new statement last weekend the Diocese of Jerusalem announced that on Thursday July 11 “owing to the dedication and courage of our staff” it was possible to reopen the hospital.
“Despite intense military activity in the areas surrounding the hospital, some staff were able to return. Most patients and others in need of medical attention have not yet been able to make the same hazardous journey. Our remarkable staff were able to perform eight surgeries in the day,” the statement read.
The hospital ambulance, which was hit by a sniper on Monday July 8, was severely damaged, the Diocese said but thankfully the driver had returned to the hospital safe and unharmed and there were no patients in the ambulance at the time.
“The Diocese of Jerusalem is committed to the continued ministry of healing and reconciliation. This is fulfilled beyond all expectation by the outstanding service and courage of the people of the Diocese. The Ahli Arab Hospital is and will remain a beacon of hope in Gaza and beyond. We thank all our partners around the world and all people of goodwill for their prayers and support in these challenging days,” the statement concluded.
The announcement has been welcomed by the Archbishop of Dublin. Archbishop Michael Jackson commended the resilience of the hospital staff and urged prayer for them and the people of our partner diocese of Jerusalem.
“The spirit of Al Ahli Arab Hospital continues to engender both respect and awe in each of us,” he said. “The pressures under which staff and patients and their families and associates labour are incalculable and unimaginable to us.
“I encourage everyone who has been associated with and who has contributed to our Shine a Light appeal for the medical services of the Diocese of Jerusalem to pray for and with those who experience unendurable suffering and to commend their resilience and their presence to everyone. We also keep Archbishop Hosam and his clergy and people who are our dear friends in our hearts and in our prayers,” he added.