WHO Urges Protection of Humanitarian Efforts in Gaza Amidst Disturbing Incidents

In a recent statement on December 12, 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) called for increased protection of healthcare and humanitarian activities in Gaza, following alarming incidents during a high-risk mission. The mission, aimed at transferring critically ill patients and delivering essential supplies, encountered military checkpoint delays and the detention of health partners, resulting in tragic consequences.

High-Risk Mission Turns Tragic

A collaborative effort involving WHO, the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS), and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), took place on December 9, 2023. The mission intended to deliver medical supplies to Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City, assess the hospital's situation, and transfer critically injured patients to a facility in the south.

However, the mission faced significant hurdles at the Wadi Gaza checkpoint, with health workers detained, harassed, and subjected to degrading treatment. Disturbingly, on the way back, one of the PRCS staff, previously detained, faced further interrogation. Amidst these challenges, the mission had to make the tough decision to proceed for the safety of patients and humanitarian workers, leaving behind a highly dangerous area.

Tragically, it was later reported that one of the injured patients died as a result of untreated wounds during the transfer process.

Ongoing Concerns for Humanitarian Workers

This is not an isolated incident. Previous detentions occurred on November 22 during a WHO-led mission, further highlighting the challenges faced by humanitarian workers in Gaza. Six people from the Ministry of Health and PRCS were detained, and four remain in detention, with no information on their well-being or whereabouts. The WHO expresses deep concern about their situation and reiterates the call for their legal and human rights to be respected.

Shrinking Space for Humanitarian Actions

The difficulties encountered by the recent mission underscore the shrinking space for humanitarian actors within Gaza. Despite the desperate need for access to alleviate the catastrophic humanitarian situation, obstacles persist. Ambulances and healthcare workers must be protected under international law, emphasizing the urgency for respect and protection in all circumstances.

Grim Situation at Al-Ahli Hospital

During the mission, WHO staff witnessed the dire conditions at Al-Ahli Hospital, describing it as an "utter chaos and a humanitarian disaster zone." The hospital, heavily damaged due to hostilities, is overwhelmed with over 200 patients while having resources for only 40 beds. Shortages of fuel, oxygen, essential medical supplies, food, and water exacerbate the crisis. Doctors face the heartbreaking challenge of prioritizing care and resorting to limb amputations as a last resort to save lives.

A Call for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Support

In the face of escalating hostilities and a failing humanitarian support system, WHO emphasizes the need for a sustained ceasefire. Such a ceasefire would enable humanitarian organizations to work safely and unhindered, strengthening the deteriorating health system, replenishing critical supplies, and preventing further suffering in Gaza.

As the international community watches, the situation in Gaza remains precarious, emphasizing the urgency for collective efforts to ensure the protection of humanitarian space and the well-being of those in need.

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