Geneva, A UN expert has condemned the ongoing attacks on the health system in Gaza, including recent airstrikes targeting hospitals and health workers. These strikes, including several against the Kamal Adwan hospital in northern Gaza, have been described as an ‘unrelenting war’ on medical services in the region.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Tlaleng Mofokeng, UN Special Rapporteur on the right to health, expressed deep concern over the situation. As a medical doctor, Mofokeng empathized with the Gazan medical professionals working under attack, noting the loss of many colleagues and loved ones. Since October 7, 2023, at least 364 attacks on healthcare services have been recorded in the occupied Palestinian territory, resulting in at least 553 deaths and 729 injuries. Additionally, over 50 health facilities and 190 ambulances have been impacted.

The General Director of Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa, was arrested on November 23, and his whereabouts remain unknown. Al-Indonesi hospital has reportedly been bombed 35 times since October 28. Mofokeng highlighted the dire state of healthcare infrastructure in Gaza, which she said has been ‘completely obliterated.’

The situation has led to at least five newborn deaths at Al Shifa hospital before a planned evacuation and an increase in communicable diseases and respiratory illnesses. The ongoing conflict poses an escalated risk of child pneumonia and other health crises, especially as winter approaches.

Mofokeng condemned the numerous violations of international humanitarian law, which afford special protection to civilians, children, and medical personnel, as well as violations of international human rights law. She recalled her experiences as a child survivor of apartheid to empathize with the long-term trauma endured by the people of Gaza.

The UN expert called for an immediate ceasefire and an end to the occupation of Palestinian territory, emphasizing the urgent need to prevent conflict and address its root causes. She stressed that for quality healthcare to be accessible, healthcare workers must be safe and free to provide care.

Mofokeng concluded by emphasizing the crucial role of political leadership in ending the war on Gaza’s healthcare system and called for immediate action to halt the violence.