In brief
In a significant blow to humanitarian efforts in Gaza, the World Health Organization (WHO) has stopped medical evacuations following the death of Majdi Aslan, a contractor killed by Israeli troops. The incident, described as stemming from a 'security breach', has drawn attention to the urgent need for the protection of civilians and medical personnel in conflict zones. As the situation escalates, with over 18,000 Palestinians awaiting medical treatment, the WHO emphasizes the critical imperative of humanitarian access amidst ongoing violence.
The World Health Organization has suspended medical evacuations from Gaza to Egypt via the Rafah crossing after a contractor was killed by Israeli troops on Monday.
WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced that the contractor, identified locally as Majdi Aslan, 54, was killed in what was termed a 'security incident.' Two other staff present at the time were not reported injured. Further details about the incident were not provided.
According to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry, Aslan was driving a WHO-rented vehicle in southern Gaza when it came under fire from Israeli forces.
Israel's military stated they identified an unmarked vehicle approaching their positions and claimed it posed an immediate threat, leading to warning shots being fired. When the vehicle reportedly accelerated toward them, they responded with gunfire that hit the vehicle.
This incident has led to the immediate suspension of medical evacuations from Gaza, a critical service for many who are in urgent need of treatment. 'We call for the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers,' Tedros added.
Hanan Balkhy, the WHO's regional director, lamented the killing of Aslan, describing it as 'a devastating loss' and remarked that halting medical evacuations has 'cut off a critical pathway to care for patients.'
A colleague of Aslan stated that the vehicle was clearly marked with the WHO's logo and was part of a convoy transporting patients when it was attacked by an Israeli tank. He expressed frustration over the lack of safety for humanitarian assistance in the area, stating, 'What ceasefire is this? Every day we have someone killed.'
At al-Aqsa hospital, another medic confirmed that Aslan was targeted while coordinating the transfer of patients. This disruption comes at a time when over 18,000 Palestinian patients are reported to be waiting for medical treatment outside Gaza.
The Rafah crossing was recently reopened for limited operations but has faced closures amid escalating tensions. Both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of ceasefire violations, raising serious concerns for civilian safety and humanitarian access in the ongoing conflict.
