"The Future of Israel Attacks Push Gaza Healthcare 'to Brink of Collapse'

The Future of Israel Attacks Push Gaza Healthcare 'to Brink of Collapse'A recent report by the United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) has revealed that the Israeli military's relentless attacks on hospitals in Gaza have pushed the healthcare system to the brink of collapse. The report highlights the devastating consequences for Palestinians seeking medical care, as at least 136 strikes were carried out on at least 27 hospitals and 12 other medical facilities between October 2023 and June 2024.The OHCHR report emphasizes that Israel's actions are in breach of international humanitarian law, which protects medical personnel and facilities from attack. Even if hospitals are being used for military purposes, attacks must still comply with the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precautions in attack. Failure to respect these principles constitutes a breach of international humanitarian law.The report also documents numerous instances where Israeli forces targeted medical staff and patients, including a volunteer nurse who was fatally shot while looking out of a hospital window. The OHCHR has verified multiple cases of people being shot dead at Al Awda Hospital in Jabalya, raising concerns about the apparent targeting of individuals seeking medical care.The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is compounded by the destruction of healthcare facilities and equipment, leaving patients without access to basic medical services. Women, especially pregnant women, have been disproportionately affected, with many forced to give birth without proper prenatal or postnatal care, increasing the risk of preventable maternal and child mortality.Furthermore, the report suggests that the deliberate destruction of healthcare facilities may amount to a form of collective punishment, which would constitute a war crime under international law. The OHCHR urges Israel to ensure and facilitate access to adequate healthcare for the Palestinian population and prioritize the restoration of medical capacity in Gaza.Concerns about War Crimes and Crimes Against HumanityThe OHCHR report raises serious concerns about the possibility of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and breaches of international humanitarian law. The deliberate targeting of hospitals and medical facilities, as well as the intentional launching of disproportionate attacks, are all violations of international law.Additionally, the report notes that several acts may amount to crimes against humanity if committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack directed against a civilian population. These acts include intentionally directing attacks against hospitals and places where the sick and wounded are treated, and intentionally launching indiscriminate attacks resulting in death or injury to civilians.Allegations about Hospital UseIsrael has alleged that some hospitals were being improperly used for military purposes by Palestinian armed groups. However, insufficient information has been provided to substantiate these allegations, which remain vague and broad. If verified, this would raise serious concerns about the use of civilians as human shields, which would amount to a war crime.The Impact on Medical ProfessionalsAt least 500 medical professionals have been killed in Gaza since October 2023, according to the OHCHR report. This devastating loss of life has pushed the healthcare system to the brink of collapse, leaving patients without access to basic medical services.The OHCHR report emphasizes that it is essential for there to be independent, thorough, and transparent investigations of all incidents, and full accountability for all violations of international humanitarian and human rights law. All medical workers arbitrarily detained must be immediately released, and efforts must be made to restore the medical capacity in Gaza.In conclusion, Israel's attacks on hospitals in Gaza have pushed the healthcare system to the brink of collapse, with devastating consequences for Palestinians seeking medical care. It is essential that there be independent investigations and accountability for all violations of international law, and that efforts are made to restore the medical capacity in Gaza.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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