The ongoing conflict in Gaza is raising alarm bells in the international community, particularly with the medical fraternity. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has expressed deep concern for the safety of Dr. Mohammed Obeid, an orthopaedic surgeon who has gone missing from Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza.
Worsening Conditions in Gaza’s Healthcare
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the World Health Organisation (WHO), warned on 26 October 2024 that northern Gaza is experiencing catastrophic conditions.
- Intense military operations are occurring around healthcare facilities.
- A critical shortage of medical supplies is worsening the situation.
- Access to medical care has become severely restricted.
Dr. Tedros highlighted the situation at Kamal Adwan, which is the last functioning hospital in the region. The hospital has been directly affected by military action, with reports of injuries among medical staff and patients during a raid on 25 October.
Impact of Military Operations
According to the Gaza health ministry, the Israeli military stormed the Kamal Adwan Hospital, resulting in the deaths of two children and the detention of hundreds of staff and patients. The Israeli military stated they were conducting operations in the area but denied any live fire in the vicinity of the hospital.
Calls for Protection of Medical Personnel
MSF’s communication emphasised the dire need for the safety of all health workers in Gaza. The organisation is currently making efforts to establish contact with Dr. Obeid after losing communication since Friday.
Dr. Tedros made a strong appeal for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, stressing that attacks on healthcare facilities violate international humanitarian law. He stated that protecting hospitals is essential for safeguarding what remains of Gaza’s collapsing healthcare system.
As the conflict escalates, the plight of healthcare workers and civilians trapped in Gaza remains a pressing concern for the international community.