The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has demanded that Israel take immediate action to release a senior Gazan doctor and put an end to targeting hospitals in the besieged territory. This call for action comes after a recent escalation of violence in the Gaza Strip, which has resulted in numerous civilian casualties and severe damage to essential medical facilities.
In a statement released on Monday, Director-General Tedros expressed his deep concern over the situation in Gaza, stating that “the targeting of hospitals and medical staff is a grave violation of international humanitarian law and must be stopped immediately.” He also called for the immediate release of Dr. Ayman Abu al-Ouf, a prominent Palestinian physician who was arrested by Israeli forces during a raid on his home last week.
Dr. Abu al-Ouf, the head of the internal medicine department at Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa, has been a critical figure in the territory’s fight against the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. His arrest has sparked outrage and condemnation from the international community, with many calling for his immediate release.
The Director-General also highlighted the devastating impact that the destruction of medical facilities has on the already fragile health system in Gaza. “Hospitals and other health facilities must be protected and respected as safe spaces for patients and medical staff. The destruction of these facilities not only puts the lives of patients at risk but also hinders the ability of medical professionals to provide essential care,” he stated.
The Gaza Strip has been under a crippling blockade for over a decade, severely limiting access to medical supplies and equipment. The recent escalation of violence has only exacerbated the situation, with many hospitals and clinics struggling to cope with the influx of injured civilians. The WHO has been working tirelessly to provide much-needed medical aid to the territory, but the ongoing violence and targeting of medical facilities have made their efforts increasingly challenging.
Director-General Tedros also expressed his concern for the mental health of the people of Gaza, who have been living under constant fear and trauma for years. “The psychological toll of this violence on the people of Gaza cannot be ignored. It is essential that they have access to mental health support and services to help them cope with the ongoing crisis,” he said.
The WHO has called on all parties involved to respect international humanitarian law and ensure the protection of civilians, including medical staff and facilities. They have also urged for an immediate ceasefire to allow for the safe delivery of essential medical supplies and the evacuation of injured civilians.
The Director-General’s statement has been met with support and solidarity from various organizations and world leaders. The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has also called for an immediate end to the violence and stressed the need for unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza.
The international community must come together to put an end to the violence in Gaza and work towards a lasting solution that ensures the protection and well-being of all civilians. The WHO’s call for action is a reminder that the health and safety of all individuals, regardless of their nationality or political affiliations, must be a top priority.
In conclusion, the Director-General’s demand for the release of Dr. Ayman Abu al-Ouf and the protection of medical facilities in Gaza is a crucial step towards addressing the humanitarian crisis in the territory. It is essential that Israel takes immediate action to comply with international humanitarian law and put an end to the targeting of hospitals and medical staff. The WHO will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide support to the people of Gaza in their time of need. Let us all stand together in solidarity with the people of Gaza and work towards a peaceful and prosperous future for all.
