Geneva – The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a dire warning about the “catastrophic” humanitarian crisis unfolding in northern Gaza. This comes amid efforts by the Israeli occupation forces to forcibly evacuate and displace residents from the area through relentless military operations.
On Saturday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed deep concern via social media, highlighting that Israeli airstrikes are also targeting healthcare facilities, further exacerbating the humanitarian emergency. He emphasized that access to these facilities is extremely limited, and essential medical supplies are running out, depriving residents of lifesaving care.
Tedros noted that the lifting of the Israeli siege on Kamal Adwan Hospital came at a high cost. He revealed that 44 male staff members and hospital workers were detained by Israeli forces, leaving behind only female staff, the hospital director, and a lone physician to care for around 200 critically ill patients.
The WHO chief stressed that Gaza’s healthcare system has been under attack for over a year, and the damage inflicted on hospitals and the depletion of medical supplies are devastating. Tedros reiterated that an immediate and unconditional ceasefire is the only way to protect the remaining healthcare infrastructure in Gaza and prevent further loss of life.
Widespread Devastation and Displacement
According to local sources, Israeli forces withdrew from Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, leaving behind casualties, injuries, and extensive destruction following their raid on Friday. Northern Gaza continues to endure ethnic cleansing and systematic annihilation on a daily basis, as the Israeli occupation intensifies its ground invasion and heavy bombardment, which began on October 5, 2024. These actions are coupled with ongoing forced evacuations and mass displacement of civilians.
Rising Death Toll and Restricted Humanitarian Access
The Palestinian Health Ministry reported a sharp rise in the death toll from the ongoing Israeli aggression, which began on October 7, 2023. As of today, 42,924 Palestinians have been killed, with 100,833 others injured. The Ministry also noted that thousands of bodies remain trapped under the rubble and on streets, as Israeli forces block ambulances and rescue teams from reaching the victims.
The indiscriminate attacks on civilians, healthcare facilities, and critical infrastructure have drawn widespread condemnation from international organizations and human rights groups. The situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with no signs of relief as the Israeli military campaign shows no indication of halting.
For more developments on the humanitarian crisis and international efforts to address it, visit DZWATCH.DZ.
Author: nor-eleslam
WHO warns of catastrophic conditions in Gaza amidst Israeli aggression
