Gaza’s health ministry warned on Saturday of an imminent collapse of the territory’s healthcare system due to widespread shortages of medicines and medical supplies, saying remaining hospitals are unable to meet the growing needs of patients and wounded people.

In a statement, the ministry said 46% of essential medicines, 66% of medical consumables and 84% of laboratory and blood bank supplies have reached zero stock levels in Gaza’s hospitals.

It added that the severe shortages have made “even basic painkillers a luxury” unavailable to people facing death “every minute”.

The ministry said limited quantities of medicines reaching hospitals are insufficient to meet actual needs or ensure the continued provision of healthcare services.