Israel’s separation barrier makes it difficult for Palestinians in the West Bank to obtain proper health care, according to a new United Nations report.

Prepared by the Office of the Co-ordinator for Humanitarian Affairs, the report found that thousands of Palestinians have limited access to East Jerusalem hospitals because of the barrier.

Ambulances are routinely delayed and Palestinian vehicles are not allowed to pass through barrier checkpoints, forcing sick or elderly patients to walk.

Some Palestinians in the West Bank can’t obtain permits to receive care in East Jerusalem — or receive permits for less time than treatment requires.

“Males aged between 15 and 30 often have their requests for permits turned down on the grounds of security,” the UN wrote. “In many cases, it is also difficult for parents of sick children or for family members to obtain permits to escort patients to Jerusalem.”

Last Friday marked the sixth anniversary of an International Court of Justice ruling that declared the security barrier illegal. The court called on Israel to dismantle the barrier and to compensate Palestinians affected by its construction.

Israel ignored the ruling, and 61% of the 707 km is now complete according to the UN.