Geneva, 11 December 2023 (TDI): The World Health Organization (WHO) Executive Board adopted a resolution by consensus calling for urgent action to address the critical humanitarian crisis unfolding in the Gaza Strip.
This unprecedented decision, marking the first consensus resolution on the conflict within the UN system since October 7th, underscores the dire need for immediate and unimpeded access to life-saving aid for the Gazan population.
The resolution, passed by a unanimous vote of all 34 member states, acknowledges the “grave deterioration” of health conditions in Gaza and expresses “deep concern” about the impact of the ongoing conflict on the civilian population.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), expressed strong condemnation for the “barbaric and unjustifiable attacks by Hamas on Israel on October 7, claiming the lives of more than 1,200 people.”
He conveyed deep concern about reports of gender-based violence during these attacks and the mistreatment of hostages. Dr. Tedros, while acknowledging the release of 114 hostages, reiterated his call for the freedom of all hostages.
Recognizing the profound emotions of the Israeli people in the aftermath of the attacks, he also empathized with the anguish and fear experienced by the people of Gaza, who have endured 16 years of blockade and are now facing the destruction of their families, homes, and communities.
He commended the utilization of the potent emergency tool, Article 99, by the UN chief last week and endorsed António Guterres’s plea for a humanitarian ceasefire.
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According to him, this approach represents “the sole means to genuinely safeguard and advance the health of the people of Gaza.” Tedros conveyed profound disappointment at the Security Council’s inability to pass a resolution concerning such a ceasefire last Friday.
He emphasized that “absent a ceasefire, peace remains elusive, and in the absence of peace, health is compromised. I implore all Member States, particularly those wielding significant influence, to expedite efforts in bringing a swift conclusion to this conflict.
