WHO chief calls on Israel to urgently enable access to Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza

ISTANBUL

World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged Israel on Sunday to urgently enable access to Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza and establish a humanitarian corridor.

“We urge Israel to urgently facilitate access and a humanitarian corridor so WHO and partners can carry out the lifesaving transfer of patients,” Tedros said on X.

He said 21 patients have died since Al-Shifa Hospital came under siege on March 18, with hostilities continuing in its vicinity according to updates from a health worker at the facility.

“107 patients are in an inadequate building, within the hospital compound, lacking needed health support, medical care and supplies. Patients have been moved multiple times within the hospital compound since the siege began.

“Among the patients are 4 children and 28 critical patients lacking necessary means of care - no diapers, urine bags, water to clean wounds. Many have infected wounds and are dehydrated,” he added.

Tedros said that as of yesterday, there is now just one bottle of water available for every 15 people, leading to the rapid spread of contagious diseases because of highly unsanitary conditions and water scarcity.

He added that a severe shortage of food poses a critical risk, particularly for diabetic patients whose health is deteriorating.

“We repeat: every moment matters. Ceasefire,” he said.