An Update from Dr. Maher Ayyad on the Current Situation at Al Ahli Arab Hospital
October 14, 2025- Posted in Diocese of Jerusalem, Gaza, Healthcare, Institution Spotlight, Palestine, Video
Since the war began in October 2023, Ahli, the only Christian-led hospital in Gaza, has seen its capacity increase from 50 to as many as 250 beds to meet overwhelming medical needs. Staff face tremendous pressure as many specialized nurses and doctors fled south, leaving the hospital with no anesthesiologist and only one radiologist for the entire region of northern Gaza.
Even after the recent ceasefire, the hospital continues to care for 100-120 patients daily and performs roughly 1,000 surgeries each month, including orthopedic, plastic, vascular, and general surgeries. Dr. Maher emphasizes severe shortages of staff, medicine, equipment, and fuel, noting that the hospital requires 1,000 liters of fuel per day to keep generators running.
Watch the full update here (Content warning: Hospital scenes and blood)
Today, Ahli Hospital operates the only functioning ICU in Gaza with just three beds to serve more than half a million people. Despite these immense pressures, the hospital remains a lifeline for vulnerable populations.
“We pray all the time to reach peace in this area.” – Dr. Maher Ayyad, Medical Director of Al Ahli Arab Hospital
At AFEDJ, we remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting the humanitarian mission of Al Ahli Arab Hospital: to offer healing and hope to every person in need, regardless of faith, politics, or ability to pay.
How You Can Help
Your gift to AFEDJ helps hospitals like Ahli continue their life-saving work in Gaza. By donating to where the need is greatest, you provide critical support to the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem’s institutions, including hospitals, schools, and centers for pediatric rehabilitation, ensuring that even in the face of devastation, care reaches those who need it most. Your generosity allows healing to continue and hope to endure.