## Gaza’s North Faces Dire Health Crisis as Kamal Adwan Hospital Falls Silent
The humanitarian situation in northern Gaza has reached a critical point, with the recent closure of the Kamal Adwan Hospital leaving the region’s 75,000 remaining residents without access to essential healthcare services. The Italian Society of Anaesthesia, Analgesia, Resuscitation and Intensive Care (Siaarti) has expressed deep concern over the unfolding crisis, calling for an immediate and coordinated response from the international community.
“The current humanitarian situation in northern Gaza is unacceptable,” declared elena Bignami,president of Siaarti. “We cannot allow the civilian population to be abandoned without essential care.”
Siaarti echoes the World Health Organization’s (WHO) condemnation of the attack on the Kamal Adwan Hospital, the last major healthcare facility in the region. The systematic dismantling of the health system, coupled with an 80-day siege, has placed the lives of thousands at grave risk.
Beyond the lack of medical facilities, the population faces a dire humanitarian crisis marked by food and water shortages, inadequate shelter, and harsh climatic conditions. Tragically, newborns have already succumbed to hypothermia, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Siaarti firmly condemns the use of civilians as “human shields” and the repurposing of hospitals for non-healthcare purposes.The organization also denounces indiscriminate attacks targeting civilians, healthcare personnel, and facilities.
“The destruction of health facilities, especially in a humanitarian emergency situation like this, represents a serious violation of the basic principles of international humanitarian law,” stated Alberto Giannini, head of the Siaarti Ethics Committee.
Siaarti emphasizes the unwavering duty of healthcare professionals to treat all individuals without discrimination, urging them to prioritize patient care even in challenging circumstances. The organization calls for an immediate ceasefire and the active protection of health facilities and civilians.
“The international community must act urgently to ensure that the protection of life and health prevails over all other considerations,” concluded Bignami.”Only thru respect for humanitarian principles will we be able to aspire to a future of peace and security for all.”
Gaza’s North: A Dire Health Crisis Demands Urgent action
Time.News: The recent closure of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza has left 75,000 residents without access to essential healthcare. What are the implications of this development for the region’s already fragile health system?
dr. elena Bignami, President of Siaarti: This is a catastrophic situation. The closure of Kamal Adwan, the last major hospital in the region, exacerbates the already dire health crisis in northern Gaza.It represents a complete breakdown of essential healthcare services for 75,000 people facing displacement, food and water shortages, inadequate shelter, and extreme climatic conditions.
Time.News: Siaarti condemns the attack on Kamal Adwan Hospital, describing it as a violation of international humanitarian law. What are some of the key ethical considerations surrounding this attack, especially in the context of a humanitarian emergency?
Dr. Bignami: The purposeful targeting of healthcare facilities, a clear violation of international humanitarian law, constitutes a grave breach of medical ethics.hospitals are sanctuaries for the vulnerable, and their destruction indiscriminately endangers lives and exacerbates suffering. This attack further exposes the dire humanitarian situation in northern Gaza, where civilians are being denied their fundamental right to healthcare and protection.
Time.News: What practical steps can be taken to address this crisis?
Dr. Bignami: An immediate ceasefire is urgently needed to allow for the safe delivery of humanitarian aid and the restoration of essential services. The international community must prioritize the protection of civilians and healthcare facilities.We also need increased pressure on all parties involved to respect international humanitarian law and ensure unrestricted access to healthcare for all in need. Healthcare professionals, wherever possible, must continue to provide care, even in the most challenging circumstances.Their unwavering commitment to providing care for all regardless of political affiliation or circumstance is essential.
Time.news: How can readers take action to support those suffering in northern Gaza?
Dr. Bignami: Raising awareness about this crisis is crucial. Supporting reputable humanitarian organizations working on the ground in Gaza, such as the Red cross and Doctors Without Borders, can make a tangible difference in providing vital relief. Pressuring governments to intensify diplomatic efforts for a peaceful resolution and to impose sanctions against those who violate international law is also essential. Uncertain futures call for collective action and unwavering support for those facing unimaginable hardship.
