WHO Chief calls for end to hospital attacks in Gaza after devastating strike
World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has issued a stark condemnation of the recent attack on a hospital in Gaza, reiterating his urgent call for an immediate end to all attacks on healthcare facilities in the region. The strike, which resulted in casualties and significant damage to the hospital, has further crippled an already strained healthcare system and sparked international outrage.
“I am utterly appalled by the attack on a hospital in Gaza,” Dr. Tedros stated in a press release. “Hospitals are not targets. Healthcare workers are not targets. Patients are not targets. These attacks constitute a grave violation of international humanitarian law.”
The incident marks the latest in a series of attacks that have targeted healthcare infrastructure in Gaza, severely hindering the provision of essential medical services to a population already grappling with numerous challenges. The WHO has consistently warned of the devastating consequences of such attacks, which not only endanger the lives of patients and healthcare workers but also disrupt vital medical care, leading to preventable deaths and suffering.
“The healthcare system in Gaza is on its knees,” Dr. Tedros emphasized. “These repeated attacks make it nearly impossible for hospitals to function, denying people access to life-saving care. We must protect healthcare at all costs.”
The WHO chief’s call for an end to hospital attacks comes amidst escalating tensions in the region, which have resulted in widespread violence and a growing humanitarian crisis. The ongoing conflict has placed immense pressure on Gaza’s healthcare system, which is already struggling with shortages of essential medicines, medical supplies, and qualified personnel.
The attack on the hospital has further exacerbated the situation, leaving healthcare workers overwhelmed and struggling to cope with the influx of casualties. The damage to the hospital’s infrastructure has also forced the relocation of patients and the suspension of critical services, further limiting access to care.
The international community has joined the WHO in condemning the attack and calling for the protection of healthcare facilities in Gaza. Numerous organizations and world leaders have expressed their deep concern over the escalating violence and the targeting of civilians, urging all parties to respect international humanitarian law and ensure the safety of healthcare workers and patients.
The WHO is working closely with local health authorities and partners on the ground to provide emergency medical assistance and support the restoration of healthcare services in Gaza. The organization is providing essential medical supplies, deploying medical teams, and working to strengthen the capacity of local healthcare facilities to cope with the ongoing crisis.
However, the WHO has stressed that humanitarian aid alone is not enough to address the root causes of the crisis. A lasting solution requires a cessation of hostilities and a commitment from all parties to respect international law and protect civilians.
“We need an immediate ceasefire,” Dr. Tedros urged. “We need to protect civilians and healthcare facilities. We need to ensure unimpeded access for humanitarian aid. And above all, we need a lasting peace that will prevent further suffering and loss of life.”
The attack on the hospital in Gaza underscores the urgent need for greater protection of healthcare in conflict zones. The WHO has called for stronger measures to prevent such attacks and hold perpetrators accountable. The organization is also working to strengthen international legal frameworks and promote greater respect for international humanitarian law.