Gaza Civil Defense: “We are operating at 5% of our capacity & it may take years to recover bodies”

The Director of the Civil Defense in Gaza, Brigadier General Raed Al-Dahshan, stated that the force is facing one of the most critical periods in its history amid the ongoing Israeli genocidal campaign on the Gaza Strip. Rescue teams, equipment, and operational headquarters have been hit by airstrikes, resulting in an almost complete paralysis of the force’s operational capabilities.

Al-Dahshan told Palestine newspaper today, Thursday, that the Civil Defense would need only three months to recover approximately 10,000 bodies trapped under the rubble of houses if heavy machinery were allowed in. He warned, however, that continued restrictions could prolong the process for years and worsen the humanitarian disaster.

He added that the force is currently operating at only 5–7% of its capacity, after losing about 85% of its equipment due to bombardment and a blockade that has lasted more than 17 years. This includes most fire trucks, rescue vehicles, and ambulances. Additionally, 142 of its personnel have been martyred, and 352 others have sustained permanent disabilities.

Al-Dahshan pointed out that all 17 Civil Defense headquarters have been completely destroyed, and that most of the bodies under the rubble are already known to their families, but recovery operations are proceeding very slowly due to the lack of heavy machinery.

He emphasized that the force continues to operate with minimal resources and called on the international community and Palestinian authorities to provide support, equipment, fuel to ensure the Civil Defense can continue its work and protect civilians.