The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has urged a complete rebuilding of Gaza’s health system following the recent implementation of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
In a statement released on Monday, Tedros said WHO teams have stepped up their operations across the Gaza Strip since the truce took effect. Eight truckloads of emergency medical supplies have been delivered to the territory, and a rapid response medical team has been deployed to Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City.
The organization also managed to reach Gaza’s European Hospital and Nasser Hospital — a development Tedros described as “a crucial first step” toward restoring emergency healthcare services throughout the enclave.
Tedros emphasized that improving access to medical facilities and expanding humanitarian operations are key pillars of the global response. He reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to significantly scaling up its presence in Gaza in order to save lives and rehabilitate a health system left in ruins by months of war.
He also welcomed the beginning of prisoner releases, calling it “a sign of hope” for Gaza’s population after two years of immense suffering and devastation.
“We are ready to intensify our efforts to save lives and rebuild Gaza’s health system,” Tedros concluded. “This crisis gives us the chance to create a stronger, fairer system that truly meets people’s needs. Peace remains the best medicine.”
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