WHO Condemns Destruction of Gaza's Kamal Adwan Hospital


TEHRAN (Tasnim) – The World Health Organization (WHO) has voiced grave concern over the destruction of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, following reports indicating that Israeli forces buried individuals alive within the hospital's premises during their operation.

WHO's Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, through a social media post on Sunday, highlighted Israel's targeted operation on Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahia, labeling it as rendering the facility non-functional and resulting in the tragic deaths of at least eight patients. Numerous health workers were also detained during this assault.

Ghebreyesus highlighted the dire situation, stating that many patients were forced to self-evacuate, putting their health at great risk as ambulances couldn't reach the facility. He expressed "extreme concern" for internally displaced individuals who sought refuge in the hospital during the Israeli attack, emphasizing that Gaza's already fragile health system has taken a severe blow.

"Gaza’s health system was already on its knees, and the loss of another even minimally functioning hospital is a severe blow," Ghebreyesus warned, adding, “Attacks on hospitals, health personnel, and patients must end. Ceasefire NOW.”

Al Jazeera's report on Saturday detailed Israeli bulldozers demolishing tents belonging to displaced Palestinians near the hospital, with claims of people being "buried alive" inside. The visual evidence showed wreckage and personal belongings strewn across the hospital's courtyard, with at least 20 bodies found following the operation.

This occurrence unfolded amidst the ongoing regime's genocidal war on the Gaza Strip since October 7. The toll from Israeli airstrikes stands at approximately 19,000 casualties, predominantly comprising women and children.

Palestinian Health Minister Mai Alkaila has urged an international investigation into reports of Palestinians being buried alive by Israeli forces at Kamal Adwan Hospital. Collated information from eyewitnesses, medical teams, and media sources has prompted these calls for an impartial inquiry.

Similarly, the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor from Geneva has echoed the demand for an international investigation into the Israeli violations at the hospital. Documenting events meticulously, the organization stresses the urgency for a comprehensive probe into the reported atrocities against patients, displaced civilians, and medical personnel in recent days.