The World Health Organization (WHO) has voiced strong condemnation of Israeli military operations in central Gaza, which have disrupted humanitarian efforts amid an ongoing crisis. According to a statement from the WHO, its facilities in Deir al-Balah faced severe attacks, including the destruction of a main warehouse and the targeting of a staff residence, leaving health operations in jeopardy.
On Monday, Israeli forces reportedly bombarded the WHO staff residence, leading to significant damage and exposing staff, including families with children, to grave risk. The agency called for the immediate release of a detained staff member, emphasizing the urgent need to protect humanitarian workers in conflict areas.
The WHO highlighted the devastating impact of these military operations, stating that they are part of a disturbing trend of destruction targeting health facilities. With an estimated 50,000 to 80,000 civilians displaced by the recent escalation, the humanitarian situation is deteriorating rapidly. The Hamas-run health ministry reported multiple deaths from malnutrition as essential services continue to collapse.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military claims its operations target suspected terrorists and have warned civilians to evacuate areas affected by combat. Reports from the UN indicate that at least 33 individuals, including children, have succumbed to malnutrition across Gaza in just two days.
Despite evacuation orders, the UN humanitarian office vowed to remain in Deir al-Balah to continue providing support, underscoring the necessity of protection for UN personnel. As violence rages on, local perspectives reveal acute desperation and the dire state of health care, with families facing scarcity of clean water and medical assistance.
The catastrophic situation has caught the attention of international human rights agencies cautioning against potential violations of humanitarian law amidst ongoing military actions. As calls for immediate international media access to witness the crisis grow, humanitarian organizations continue to raise alarms about the severe impacts on civilian life and essential health services in Gaza.
