In a powerful statement made late Tuesday, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, strongly criticized the recent attacks on hospitals in Gaza. Speaking out from WHO’s headquarters in Geneva, Dr. Tedros condemned the violence that has put healthcare workers and patients in grave danger, emphasizing the sanctity of health facilities even in times of conflict.
“Healthcare facilities should be safe havens in moments of crisis, not targets,” Dr. Tedros asserted, calling for an immediate cessation of attacks and underscoring the urgent need to uphold humanitarian laws that protect civilians and their access to medical care during times of war. The WHO chief outlined the dire consequences of these ongoing assaults, which have resulted in significant casualties and further strained the already overwhelmed healthcare system in Gaza.
As the conflict escalates, hospitals in the region have increasingly become unintended epicenters of violence, severely hampering medical operations. The attacks have left many hospitals partially or fully non-functional, making it challenging to provide essential care to the hundreds of victims, including children and the elderly, who urgently need medical attention.
The organization reiterated its commitment to working with international partners to maintain the delivery of critical supplies and medical assistance to the region. Dr. Tedros called on all involved parties to respect healthcare installations and personnel, urging collective efforts to restore peace and ensure the safety and security of both patients and healthcare workers.
AQRI.net’s staff in Somalia contributed to this report, acknowledging the growing international concerns and the widespread calls for accountability and justice for the victims of these egregious attacks on medical facilities.
