Starlink Internet Provided to UAE Field Hospital in Gaza
Access to Real-Time Video Medical Consultations
SpaceX-operated Starlink internet will be provided to the United Arab Emirates field hospital in southern Gaza for patients needing real-time video medical consultations, the UAE’s foreign ministry said on Wednesday.
Enhancing Medical Support in Gaza
The Rafah-based hospital, serving as one of the few international field hospitals in Gaza, is staffed by 50 doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and lab technicians. However, difficulties in communication within the enclave have hindered the hospital’s ability to aid patients through video conferences with other medical facilities.
Breaking through Communication Barriers
Starlink, a network of thousands of satellites, will address these communication difficulties by delivering high-speed internet to users all over the world, including areas where conventional internet is otherwise unavailable.
Elon Musk to Aid Gaza through Starlink
In October, Elon Musk, the visionary entrepreneur and founder of SpaceX, expressed his intention to provide Starlink to internationally recognized aid organizations in Gaza. This move faced criticism from Israeli officials.
Approval from Israeli Government
Despite the initial criticism from Israel, Musk and Israeli officials arrived at a “principle understanding.” The Israeli government ultimately allowed Starlink to operate in Israel and Gaza with their approval. Furthermore, the Israeli Communication Ministry announced on Wednesday that Starlink’s use at the UAE field hospital has also been sanctioned.
