Gaza oxygen crisis deepens as only 12 of 34 stations remain operational

September 9, 2026 at 11:40 PM2 min

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Gaza's Ministry of Health warned on August 15 that only 12 of the strip's 34 oxygen-generation stations remain operational, with just four of 30 cylinder-filling devices still working. Families caring for oxygen-dependent patients face recurring emergencies as cylinders run out, including a 14-year-old boy whose breathing rapidly deteriorated when his supply emptied overnight.

Key Facts

Gaza's Ministry of Health reported on August 15 that only 12 of 34 oxygen-generation stations were operational.
Only four of 30 devices used to fill oxygen cylinders were still working, according to the ministry.
Ali Humaida estimates monthly costs for his son's medicine, diapers, and transportation at 950–1,100 shekels ($315–$365), double pre-war prices.
Abdulaziz Humaida, 14, has a congenital heart defect, underdeveloped lungs, hydrocephalus, and autism spectrum disorder.

Oxygen Supply Collapse

Gaza's Ministry of Health warned on August 15 that only 12 of the strip's 34 oxygen-generation stations remained operational. Only four of 30 devices used to fill oxygen cylinders were still working, the ministry said. The remaining equipment was overworked and suffered repeated mechanical failures. These conditions have made obtaining cylinders particularly difficult for patients who receive much of their care outside hospitals.

Abdulaziz's Medical Condition

Abdulaziz Humaida, 14, has lived with serious health problems since birth, including a congenital heart defect and underdeveloped lungs. He also suffers from hydrocephalus and underwent surgery to insert a ventriculoperitoneal shunt to drain excess fluid. Abdulaziz has autism spectrum disorder and requires extensive daily care, which is extremely difficult in a displacement camp in Gaza. Before the war, Abdulaziz received regular specialised treatment at a hospital in Israel, but that has now stopped.

Family's Struggle for Oxygen

Ali Humaida watches the gauge on the oxygen cylinder in his family's tent in az-Zuwayda, central Gaza, worried about how long the remaining oxygen will last. One night, when the cylinder emptied before the family could replace it, Abdulaziz's breathing rapidly deteriorated. Ali recalled fanning his son with hands and cardboard while watching his face turn blue, terrified he would lose consciousness. The cost of caring for Abdulaziz has doubled from pre-war levels, with Ali estimating monthly expenses of 950–1,100 shekels ($315–$365).