The Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon began receiving injured Palestinians from various clashes in Gaza Tuesday afternoon, as the Erez crossing opened its gates for the first time since Hamas took over the Strip.
After several hours of waiting ambulances finally started evacuating the injured, mostly from Palestinian infighting incidents and some form Monday's shooting incident atErez crossing.
Some 12-15 people were evacuated, most suffering from shrapnel injuries.
Back to back. Ambulances at Erez(Photo: Amir Cohen)
The evacuation was made possible after security forces decided there was no longer a security threat in Erez. The injured were triaged, and those found in need of immediate medical attention were evacuated first.
Ambulances picked up the injured from the crossing's secondary gateway, in order to stop a possible stampede of Palestinians into Israel .
Magen David Adom Lachish district spokesman Shay Alzami told Ynet that the ambulances took three to four people at a time.
The District Coordination and Liaison Office at Erez had been working relentlessly over the past few days, trying to make sure those needing medical attention get it – a feat made almost impossible by security concerns and the closing of the Erez Crossing.
Medical equipment and supplies are now being rushed through the crossing into Gaza by international relief organizations, as the wounded are rushed out.
The Health Ministry and Dr Shimon Scharff, head of the Barzilai Medical Center were both in close contact with the Defense Ministry, trying to expedite the evacuation, which was scheduled for Tuesday morning, but was delayed for hours.
Hanan Greenberg contributed to this report