The World Health Organization has suspended medical evacuations from Gaza to Egypt via the Rafah crossing after a contractor was killed by Israeli troops on Monday. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated the contractor – named locally as Majdi Aslan, 54 – was killed in a 'security incident', although further details were not shared. According to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry, Aslan was driving a WHO-rented vehicle when it was targeted by Israeli forces.
The Israeli military claimed their troops fired warning shots at an unmarked vehicle approaching them, alleging it posed an immediate threat. Further action was taken when the vehicle did not cease its approach.
In light of the incident, WHO has suspended medical evacuations, which are critical for many sick and wounded Palestinians. This suspension is viewed as cutting off a vital lifeline for those requiring medical attention. Tedros insisted on the importance of protecting civilians and humanitarian workers during conflicts.
Hanan Balkhy, WHO's regional director, described the killing as a 'devastating loss', stressing the long-term implications for patient care in Gaza.
Reports indicate that more than 18,000 Palestinian patients are currently in need of urgent medical treatment outside of Gaza, emphasizing the critical need for safe medical evacuations in the conflict-stricken area. The Rafah crossing has seen limited openings, and tensions remain high as the situation evolves.
The Israeli military claimed their troops fired warning shots at an unmarked vehicle approaching them, alleging it posed an immediate threat. Further action was taken when the vehicle did not cease its approach.
In light of the incident, WHO has suspended medical evacuations, which are critical for many sick and wounded Palestinians. This suspension is viewed as cutting off a vital lifeline for those requiring medical attention. Tedros insisted on the importance of protecting civilians and humanitarian workers during conflicts.
Hanan Balkhy, WHO's regional director, described the killing as a 'devastating loss', stressing the long-term implications for patient care in Gaza.
Reports indicate that more than 18,000 Palestinian patients are currently in need of urgent medical treatment outside of Gaza, emphasizing the critical need for safe medical evacuations in the conflict-stricken area. The Rafah crossing has seen limited openings, and tensions remain high as the situation evolves.
