Condemnation of Israeli Military Airstrikes in Gaza
Senior UN humanitarian officials strongly condemned the killing of seven aid workers from the NGO World Central Kitchen in Israeli military airstrikes in central Gaza. The officials reiterated concerns about the lack of safe spaces in Gaza, emphasizing that this incident is part of a larger pattern of violence.
UN Humanitarian Coordinator’s Statement
UN Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Jamie McGoldrick, highlighted the alarming number of humanitarian casualties in the region, calling for all parties to respect international humanitarian law.
World Health Organization’s Response
The World Health Organization emphasized the importance of respecting and protecting hospitals as neutral spaces, not battlegrounds. The organization expressed outrage at the killing of aid workers and stressed the need for safety in humanitarian operations.
Israeli Prime Minister’s Response
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the killing of the aid workers was unintended and tragic, expressing regret for the incident.
Destruction of Al-Shifa Hospital
Following a two-week siege by the Israeli military, Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City was destroyed, severely impacting healthcare in the region. The hospital’s closure has left medical staff and patients in dire conditions.
Impact on Healthcare
The destruction of Al-Shifa Hospital has disrupted medical services, leading to the death of patients and challenges in providing essential care to the injured. Medical staff have been struggling to cope with the lack of resources and facilities.
Humanitarian Response
The World Health Organization is working to assess the needs of the remaining health facilities in Gaza and provide essential supplies such as medicines, fuel, and food. Efforts are focused on saving the lives of the most severely injured and sick individuals.
Urgent Health Concerns
Amid the ongoing conflict, there are growing concerns about malnutrition and healthcare access in Gaza. The situation is particularly critical for malnourished children and infants who require immediate attention and support.
Call for Ceasefire
The WHO is calling for a ceasefire to address the urgent health needs of the population, especially vulnerable children and infants. The agency is urging all parties to prioritize the well-being of civilians and ensure access to essential healthcare services.