WHO Slams Israel’s Gaza Evacuation Order as a ‘Dire Threat’ jeopardizing the lives of the sick and injured

The World Health Organization (WHO) strongly condemns Israel’s decision to issue evacuation orders in Gaza, labeling it a “death sentence” for Palestinians who are sick and injured and currently receiving medical treatment in the region’s hospitals.

The WHO expressed deep concern over the relocation of more than 2000 patients to southern Gaza, where health facilities are already overwhelmed and unable to accommodate a sudden increase in the number of patients. They emphasized that this move could potentially lead to fatal consequences for these individuals. The organization shared this sentiment through a tweet on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Prior to these evacuation orders, hospitals in the area were already grappling with limited resources due to Israel’s decision to cut off supplies such as water, food, and fuel to the Gaza Strip following an unexpected attack by Hamas last weekend. The WHO had previously confirmed that despite rationing these supplies, hospitals were already operating beyond their capacity.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu initiated a war against Hamas, the Palestinian militant group that controls the Gaza Strip, leading to the issuance of these evacuation orders. On Friday, Israel provided civilians in northern Gaza with slightly over 24 hours to evacuate before the anticipated offensive.

The WHO expressed grave concern that the forced evacuation of patients and health workers will exacerbate the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region, particularly in terms of public health. They highlighted the critical condition of many patients who rely on life support machines, newborn babies in incubators, and women facing pregnancy complications.

Additionally, the organization pointed out the difficult position faced by hospital directors and workers, who are forced to choose between abandoning critically ill patients or risking their lives by attempting to transport them. They also highlighted the fact that many displaced Palestinians have sought refuge in areas surrounding hospitals.

In light of these concerns, the WHO is urgently calling on Israel to reverse the evacuation order for hospitals and ensure the protection of health facilities.

The organization also reiterated its previous appeal for the immediate and safe delivery of essential medical supplies, fuel, clean water, food, and other humanitarian aid to Gaza through the Rafah crossing. This is where life-saving assistance, including health supplies provided by the WHO and recently arrived, is currently awaiting entry.

Israel has asserted that it will not allow supplies to enter the territory until Hamas releases the more than 100 hostages it has taken.