World Health Organization issues statement on aid to Gaza

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus made statements regarding the latest developments in the Gaza Strip.

'I CONDEMN THE ATTACKS'

Ghebreyesus stated, “I am also deeply concerned about the health and well-being of civilians in Gaza, who are under bombardment and siege. I condemn the attacks on health services in both Gaza and Israel, which have led to the deaths and injuries of health workers and patients on both sides. Under international humanitarian law, all armed actors are obligated to actively protect health services.”

Referring to the attack on the Al-Ahli Arab (Baptist) Hospital in the Gaza Strip, Ghebreyesus said, “The bombing of the Al-Ahli Arab (Baptist) Hospital and the horrific loss of life it caused, regardless of who is responsible, is a violation of international humanitarian law and human rights. The hospital was one of 20 hospitals in the northern Gaza Strip that faced evacuation orders from the Israeli military.”

TRUCKS READY TO DEPART

“On Saturday, the WHO delivered a plane full of supplies to Egypt from our logistics hub in Dubai, and four more flights containing 40 metric tons of supplies will be carried out throughout the coming week,” he said. Ghebreyesus stated, “Our trucks are loaded and ready to go,” expressing his hope that the aid would be delivered tomorrow.

'I SUPPORT THE UNITED NATIONS' CALL FOR A CEASEFIRE'

Welcoming Israel's announcement yesterday that it would not block aid entering Gaza from Egypt, Ghebreyesus said, “We are currently working with the Egyptian and Palestinian Red Crescent Societies to ensure that aid supplies are delivered to Gaza as soon as possible. We have also called on emergency health teams in Egypt, the occupied Palestinian territories, and Israel. There is still time and opportunity to prevent further escalation of the situation. I support the United Nations Secretary-General's call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.”

WHO CALLS ON ISRAEL AND HAMAS

Calling for the immediate and safe release of hostages, Ghebreyesus said, “It is reported that these include infants, children, the elderly, and people who are seriously injured. I continue to call on Israel and Hamas to fulfill their obligations under international law to protect civilians and health services. I call on Israel to restore the supply of electricity and water and to support the establishment of a humanitarian corridor to Gaza. I would like to remind member states that the WHO is neutral and is committed to supporting the health and well-being of all Israelis and all Palestinians.”