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WHO chief urges cease-fire amid escalating Israeli attacks on hospitals in Gaza

WHO chief urges cease-fire amid escalating Israeli attacks on hospitals in Gaza World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus delivers his speech on the opening day of the 77th World Health Assembly, in Geneva on May 27, 2024 (AFP Photo)
By Anadolu Agency
Nov 5, 2024 10:10 AM

World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed grave concern Monday over Israel’s attacks on hospitals in Gaza, calling for an immediate cease-fire to protect civilians and health workers.

“It is appalling that hospitals in Gaza continue to be attacked,” he said on X, adding: “Lives depend on an immediate and unconditional cease-fire. It’s time to silence the gunfire and deliver peace!”

The appeal follows a recent WHO-led mission to Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, where the third floor was reportedly struck after the team’s departure, injuring six child patients – one critically.

Nearby shelling continued as WHO staff delivered essential supplies including medical kits, 150 units of blood and 20,000 liters of fuel, Tedros said.

WHO chief urges ceasefire amid escalating Israel's hospital attacks in Gaza
Palestinians inspect the damage outside Gaza’s Al-Shifa hospital after the Israeli military withdrew from the complex housing the hospital on April 1, 2024, amid the ongoing battles Israel and the Hamas militant group. (AFP Photo)

Despite these risks, the team also facilitated the transfer of 25 patients and 37 companions to Al-Shifa Hospital, he noted.

WHO condemns lack of protection for health workers in Gaza

In addition, the WHO reached Al-Awda Hospital in northern Gaza, where they managed to transfer five patients but were barred from delivering supplies, endangering the hospital’s operations, he added.

Tedros condemned the lack of protection for health care workers amid ongoing Israeli bombardments, which have also hindered humanitarian access.

Separately, he extended his thanks to Latvia, Slovenia, Türkiye, Northern Macedonia and Luxembourg for pledging $10.8 million to support the WHO Investment Round, noting that “every contribution counts.”

Last Updated:  Nov 5, 2024 10:10 AM