Urgent Call for Safe Passage of Humanitarian Aid in Gaza: The World Health Organization’s Plea for Compliance with International Law

The ongoing hostilities in Gaza, coupled with Israeli military restrictions on goods and the breakdown of order in the region, have made it increasingly difficult for aid organizations to deliver vital assistance to the people in need. In light of this situation, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has called for safe passage for humanitarian aid missions in Gaza.

Recently, a team of WHO staff attempted to deliver much-needed medical supplies and fuel to Kamal Adwan and Awda hospitals in northern Gaza. However, severe delays at checkpoints and ongoing hostilities prevented the mission from being completed entirely. Fuel did not reach Kamal Adwan for the second time in seven days, while partners were unable to assess needs at Awda to support the restoration of services. Despite these challenges, the team was able to evacuate four patients, including a 9-year-old boy with a head tumor.

Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the need for compliance with international humanitarian law and stressed that access to health care and humanitarian aid should be guaranteed for civilians in desperate need. He also called for a cease-fire to address the worsening situation in Gaza. Israel has isolated northern Gaza since late October, leading to severe shortages of food and water as well as displacing tens of thousands of people from the area.

The situation in Gaza is dire, and it is essential that international leaders take action to ensure that vital aid reaches those who need it most. The people living there are suffering from poverty, hunger, and disease due to years of conflict and political instability.

In conclusion, Adhanom Ghebreyesus’ call for safe passage for humanitarian aid missions in Gaza is critical for ensuring that civilians receive the help they desperately need. It is crucial that Israel complies with international humanitarian law and allows aid organizations access to their operations without any restrictions or delays.