American Physicians Detail Dire Conditions in War-Torn Gaza

American physicians who volunteered to provide emergency medical care in Gaza have detailed the harrowing conditions they encountered and the systemic challenges that hinder their efforts. Dr. Thaer Ahmad, an emergency medicine physician with extensive humanitarian experience in conflict zones, shared his insights during a recent episode of The Intercept Briefing podcast.

Since the latest ceasefire began in October 2025, Israel has continued its bombardment of Gaza, resulting in over 1,200 deaths as reported by UN experts this month. Despite President Donald Trump's Board of Peace agreement with Hamas to disarm and withdraw Israeli troops from Gaza, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the proposal.

Dr. Ahmad emphasized the severe strain on Gaza’s healthcare system due to ongoing military operations. He explained that medical professionals lack essential supplies and face constant security threats, including attacks on hospitals, which have repeatedly disrupted their ability to provide care effectively. "The burden has really continued to devastate the healthcare system in general," Dr. Ahmad said.

The documentary film “American Doctor,” directed by Poh Si Teng, follows three U.S. doctors from different states who entered Gaza to offer medical assistance despite the risks. Upon returning home, these physicians encountered significant obstacles when attempting to share their experiences with mainstream media and lawmakers. "They were pummeled in interviews," noted director Teng.

Dr. Ahmad highlighted the broader systemic issues that exacerbate the crisis. He pointed out the stark contrast between the resources available in Israeli society compared to Gaza, despite substantial U.S. military aid to Israel. “We don’t even have that here,” he remarked, referring to free healthcare and education benefits enjoyed by Israelis but lacking in many American communities.

Director Teng underscored the importance of recognizing individual agency while also acknowledging systemic barriers. "For everybody who’s trying to do something in this moment, it’s not like as individuals we have no agency," she said. However, she stressed that addressing these issues requires confronting entrenched systems that impede progress towards peace and humanitarian aid.

The full conversation between Jonah Valdez and Dr. Ahmad and director Teng is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms for those interested in learning more about the situation in Gaza and the role of American healthcare workers in this ongoing conflict.

This coverage sheds light on the critical yet often overlooked contributions of international medical professionals to humanitarian efforts in war-torn regions.