The head of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has voiced serious concerns about military operations around health facilities in Gaza. He highlighted that ongoing shortages of medical supplies are preventing life-saving care for patients in the region.
Dr. Tedros issued a statement describing a harrowing situation at Kamal Adwan Hospital, located in the northern Gaza Strip. He reported that local health officials had informed WHO that the siege on the hospital had ended but at a high cost. According to Dr. Tedros, 44 male staff members were detained during the siege, leaving behind only female staff, the hospital director, and a single male doctor to attend to nearly 200 patients in need of urgent medical care.
The WHO previously reported that it had lost contact with the Kamal Adwan Hospital during an Israeli military offensive in nearby Jabalia. Dr. Tedros added that current reports of damage to the hospital’s facilities and medical supplies are “deplorable.” The scarcity of resources and restricted access have hampered efforts to provide adequate medical attention to those affected by the crisis.
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US President Joe Biden Comments on Israel-Iran Tensions
As tensions in the region continue to rise, US President Joe Biden commented on recent Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian forces, noting that these strikes reportedly aimed at military targets only. He expressed hope that the strikes could signify an end to escalating hostilities.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi issued a firm statement, asserting that Iran would take all necessary measures to defend its interests and territorial integrity. He emphasized that there are “no limits” to Iran’s response if provoked further. Iran, a country with a population of nearly 90 million, has invested significantly in its missile and drone capabilities but lacks modern air defense systems.
Israel maintains one of the most advanced air forces globally, with at least 14 squadrons, including F-15s, F-16s, and state-of-the-art F-35 stealth jets, as noted by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS). The Israeli military is experienced in conducting deep strikes into hostile territory, with the shortest distance between Israel and Iran being about 1,000 km (620 miles).
Russia’s Alleged Military Support to Iran
Reports suggest that Russia is cooperating with Iran to bolster its air defense systems, which may include supplying Su-35 fighter jets in exchange for Iranian support in Moscow’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The military operations in Gaza, coupled with heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, have raised international concern. WHO’s statement about the medical crisis underscores the urgent need for humanitarian access and the resumption of adequate medical services for Gaza’s embattled population.
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