In a troubling escalation of violence, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that three health workers were injured and 44 detained at Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza’s Jabalia camp. This facility is the last functioning hospital in northern Gaza, which has been severely impacted by ongoing military operations.
The incident occurred on Friday when Gaza’s health ministry accused Israeli forces of storming the hospital, alleging that the raid resulted in the deaths of two children and the detention of hundreds of staff, patients, and displaced individuals. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus confirmed on social media platform X that contact with the hospital staff had been re-established after a brief period of communication loss.
“The siege continues, but we managed to get in touch with the staff,” Tedros stated. He further detailed that in addition to the injured health workers, four ambulances had been damaged during the raid. The Israeli military acknowledged its operations in the area but claimed it was unaware of any live fire or strikes targeting the hospital.
In the face of these dire circumstances, Tedros emphasized the hospital’s dire situation, noting it was overcrowded with nearly 200 patients and numerous individuals seeking shelter. The WHO had previously managed to transfer 23 patients and 26 caregivers to Al-Shifa Hospital, the primary healthcare facility in Gaza.
The chaos surrounding Kamal Adwan Hospital is exacerbated by the ongoing conflict, with Tedros calling for immediate protection for healthcare workers, patients, and medical facilities. He urged for a ceasefire to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected.
This incident highlights the precarious situation for healthcare in conflict zones, where medical professionals and patients often bear the brunt of violence. The WHO continues to advocate for humanitarian access and the protection of health services in Gaza amid the escalating crisis.
Sources By Agencies
