Fighting back tears, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) made a heartfelt plea to Israel on Thursday. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged Israel to show “mercy” in the ongoing Gaza war. He emphasized that achieving peace would ultimately benefit Israel itself.
During an emotional address at the WHO annual assembly, Tedros stated that the war harms Israel and fails to provide a lasting solution. He expressed deep empathy for the suffering in Gaza, saying, “I can feel how people in Gaza would feel at the moment. I can smell it, I can visualize it, I can hear even the sounds. And this is because of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).”
The Call for Political Solutions
Dr. Tedros insisted that only a political solution could lead to meaningful peace. He asserted, “A call for peace is actually in the best interests of Israel itself.” He further stated, “I feel that the war is hurting Israel itself and it will not bring a lasting solution.” His words resonated with urgency, highlighting the need for compassion and understanding.
“I ask if you can have mercy. It’s good for you and good for the Palestinians. It’s good for humanity,” he added. This poignant appeal underscored the necessity of addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan reported alarming statistics regarding the situation in Gaza. He stated that 2.1 million people in Gaza are “in imminent danger of death.” Ryan emphasized the urgent need to end starvation, release all hostages, and restore the health system.
“As an ex-hostage, I can say that we must release all hostages. Their families are suffering. Their families are in pain,” he noted. The WHO reported that Gazans face severe shortages of food, water, medical supplies, fuel, and shelter.
Hospital Crisis and Humanitarian Aid
The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. Four major hospitals have suspended medical services due to their proximity to hostilities. Currently, only 19 of the Gaza Strip’s 36 hospitals remain operational, with staff working under “impossible conditions.”
The WHO stated, “Damage or destruction has affected at least 94% of all hospitals in the Gaza Strip.” Furthermore, the organization reported that the conflict has stripped north Gaza of nearly all health care. Across the Palestinian territory, only 2,000 hospital beds remain available, a figure grossly insufficient to meet current needs.
Dr. Tedros concluded by highlighting the systematic destruction of health care facilities. He stated, “The destruction is systematic. Hospitals are rehabilitated and resupplied, only to be exposed to hostilities or attacked again. This destructive cycle must end.” His call for mercy and compassion serves as a reminder of the urgent need for peace and humanitarian support in Gaza.
