Hundreds Killed in Strike on Gaza Hospital: UN Demands Accountability
Recently, a devastating airstrike on Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza has claimed the lives of hundreds of innocent civilians. The United Nations, along with its top leaders and agencies, has expressed horror and strong condemnation regarding this tragic incident. Such attacks on hospitals and civilian infrastructure are clear violations of international humanitarian law, and the responsible parties must be held accountable.
The Gaza Health Ministry, run by Hamas, reported that at least 500 people were killed in the attack and placed the blame on Israel. However, Israeli authorities have denied involvement, stating that rockets launched by Islamic Jihad militants misfired and hit the hospital.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his deep concern and condemned the atrocity, emphasizing the protection of hospitals and medical personnel under international humanitarian law. He called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Middle East to alleviate the immense and unbearable suffering experienced by the people in the region.
Dennis Francis, the President of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, expressed shock and horror at the attack on Al-Ahli Hospital. He strongly condemned any attack on hospitals, schools, or civilian infrastructure, emphasizing that such acts are in violation of international humanitarian law and against our shared humanity. Francis stressed the urgent need for collective efforts to de-escalate the situation and facilitate humanitarian access to prevent further bloodshed and civilian casualties.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, declared that hospitals are sacrosanct and must be protected at all costs. He expressed utter disbelief at the massive strike on Al-Ahli Arab Hospital, where patients, healthcare workers, and families seeking refuge had tragically lost their lives. Turk called for an immediate end to the violence and killings, urging all states with influence to take necessary actions to bring about peace and hold those responsible accountable.
In addition to the UN leaders, the World Health Organization (WHO) condemned the attack on the hospital, which was operational and providing care to patients, healthcare workers, and internally displaced people. The organization highlighted the challenges faced by hospitals due to evacuation orders by the Israeli military and called for the active protection of civilians and healthcare facilities.
The UN Population Fund (UNFPA) joined in condemning the strike on Al-Ahli hospital, stressing the need to cease attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. They strongly emphasized that healthcare facilities must never be targeted.
In response to the attack on the hospital and growing tensions in the region, the United Arab Emirates and Russia have called for an emergency UN Security Council meeting on Palestine.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has had devastating consequences for the people in Gaza. Since October 7, over one million Palestinians have been displaced, with approximately half of them seeking shelter in UNRWA schools. The conflict has resulted in a significant loss of lives, including numerous children, and has left people buried under the rubble.
The international community demands an end to the violence and urges all parties involved to work towards a peaceful resolution that upholds the principles of international humanitarian law and protects the lives of innocent civilians. It is imperative to prioritize humanitarian aid, allowing it to reach those in need promptly. Only through collective efforts and accountability can peace and stability be restored in the region.
