In a tragic development, an Israeli airstrike targeted Gaza’s Al-Aqsa Hospital, resulting in the death of four individuals and leaving another 17 injured, according to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus shared this information on social media, highlighting the devastating impact of the strike on both patients and medical personnel.
The strike occurred as a WHO team was present at the hospital, not only to assess urgent medical needs but also to collect incubators for the northern Gaza region. This humanitarian mission was abruptly interrupted by the airstrike, underscoring the dangers faced by healthcare workers and patients in conflict zones.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the need for protecting patients, healthcare professionals, and humanitarian workers during conflicts and called for an immediate halt to attacks on medical facilities. He stressed the importance of upholding international humanitarian law, which mandates the safeguarding of hospitals and medical personnel in conflict situations.
The WHO chief’s appeal for compliance with the UN Security Council resolution advocating for a ceasefire resonates strongly in the wake of such tragic incidents. The ongoing violence and militarization of hospitals not only endanger lives but also contravene fundamental principles of humanitarianism and human rights.
This latest episode underscores the urgent need for all parties involved in the conflict to prioritize the protection of civilians, medical facilities, and humanitarian missions. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging all stakeholders to work towards a peaceful resolution and respect for humanitarian norms.
Sources By Agencies
