WHO and Palestine Red Crescent Supply Essential Aid to Two Gaza Hospitals

Photo : AFP

World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced late Sunday that a joint operation between WHO and the Palestine Red Crescent had successfully resupplied two hospitals in northern Gaza. The resupply efforts focused on Kamal Adwan and Al-Sahaba hospitals, marking a significant achievement after nine attempts to reach them over the past week.

Tedros highlighted the challenges faced by the drivers involved in the mission, stating they endured “humiliating security screening” and were temporarily detained at a checkpoint. He condemned these actions as “unacceptable,” reflecting ongoing concerns raised by WHO regarding the obstacles imposed by Israeli authorities on humanitarian missions aimed at supplying hospitals and evacuating patients.

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During a news briefing in Geneva, Tedros reiterated the urgency of the situation, emphasizing that “one-off missions are not enough” to meet the ongoing humanitarian needs in the region. He called for “sustained facilitation of humanitarian missions and ensuring safety for humanitarian staff; and for a ceasefire,” stressing the importance of consistent support for healthcare facilities in Gaza.

According to the WHO, the resupply mission included the transfer of 13 patients in critical condition from Kamal Adwan Hospital to Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. Tedros noted that Al-Shifa is currently overwhelmed, serving around 60 in-patients while receiving at least 50 to 70 new injured individuals daily. Additionally, six patients who had previously been transferred from Al-Awda Hospital to Kamal Adwan were also moved to Al-Shifa, along with their companions.

The mission delivered 20,000 liters (approximately 5,300 gallons) of fuel to Kamal Adwan and Al-Awda hospitals, as well as 23,000 liters to Al-Sahaba Hospital. This fuel is critical for operating hospital generators and ensuring a consistent power supply amid ongoing conflicts. Along with the fuel, the mission also provided 800 units of blood, essential medicines, and other supplies needed to support medical operations.

The hospital infrastructure throughout Gaza remains fragile, having sustained significant damage during the prolonged conflict between Israel and Hamas. Many medical facilities have been affected by shelling and fighting, raising serious concerns about their ability to function effectively. The Israeli military has accused Hamas of operating within these hospitals, complicating the already tense situation and further endangering patients and healthcare workers.