Gaza is experiencing a health catastrophe that will last for generations to come, the director-general of the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that a massive increase in aid is needed to begin to address the complex needs of the Strip's population. Israel has allowed more medical supplies and other aid to cross into Gaza since a ceasefire with Hamas took effect on 10 October, but Dr. Tedros stated that current levels are below those necessary to rebuild the territory's healthcare system. His statements come amid U.S. efforts to uphold the ceasefire brokered after significant violence this month.
The ceasefire agreement is described by the White House as part of a 20-point peace plan aimed at increasing aid to Gaza. However, Dr. Tedros noted that the increase in aid post-ceasefire has been less than anticipated. Gazans have been facing famine, devastating injuries, a collapsed healthcare system, and disease outbreaks fueled by the destruction of vital infrastructure.
With humanitarian access restricted, the situation is dire. Dr. Tedros indicated that mental health issues are rampant alongside the physical health crisis, stressing the urgent need for comprehensive aid. Aid groups, though working to combat starvation, emphasize that more support is necessary. The UN's World Food Programme reports that while some food aid has entered Gaza, it falls far short of what is required daily.
Dr. Tedros criticized the use of conditions on the delivery of aid, which he believes should be unconditional, insisting that humanitarian support must be allowed through without interference linked to military concerns. Current Israeli military operations in response to hostilities have complicated aid efforts, leading to temporary halts in deliveries. He called on the international community, especially the U.S., to ensure compliance with peace agreements and facilitate unhindered access for aid.
With the ongoing Israeli military campaign in response to the October 7 attack by Hamas, which resulted in a significant loss of life, the situation remains fragile. Dr. Tedros highlighted that reconstruction efforts will demand around $70 billion, with a substantial portion needed just to rebuild the devastated health system. The urgency for a peaceful resolution and increased aid into Gaza is paramount for health recovery and the future of its people.
The ceasefire agreement is described by the White House as part of a 20-point peace plan aimed at increasing aid to Gaza. However, Dr. Tedros noted that the increase in aid post-ceasefire has been less than anticipated. Gazans have been facing famine, devastating injuries, a collapsed healthcare system, and disease outbreaks fueled by the destruction of vital infrastructure.
With humanitarian access restricted, the situation is dire. Dr. Tedros indicated that mental health issues are rampant alongside the physical health crisis, stressing the urgent need for comprehensive aid. Aid groups, though working to combat starvation, emphasize that more support is necessary. The UN's World Food Programme reports that while some food aid has entered Gaza, it falls far short of what is required daily.
Dr. Tedros criticized the use of conditions on the delivery of aid, which he believes should be unconditional, insisting that humanitarian support must be allowed through without interference linked to military concerns. Current Israeli military operations in response to hostilities have complicated aid efforts, leading to temporary halts in deliveries. He called on the international community, especially the U.S., to ensure compliance with peace agreements and facilitate unhindered access for aid.
With the ongoing Israeli military campaign in response to the October 7 attack by Hamas, which resulted in a significant loss of life, the situation remains fragile. Dr. Tedros highlighted that reconstruction efforts will demand around $70 billion, with a substantial portion needed just to rebuild the devastated health system. The urgency for a peaceful resolution and increased aid into Gaza is paramount for health recovery and the future of its people.
