WHO Warns of Deteriorating Health Situation in Gaza

Geneva, February 2 (KUNA) -- The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of a deteriorating health situation in the Gaza Strip amid a chronic shortage of medicines, supplies, and medical equipment, emphasizing that the Israeli occupation’s approval system for the entry of medical supplies constitutes one of the most significant obstacles to delivering health services.

Speaking at a press conference in Geneva on Friday, WHO Representative in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Reinholdide van der Werdt, stated that “large quantities of medical supplies remain awaiting approval,” noting that “the average waiting time for approval to enter a shipment of aid reaches 74 days, or about two and a half months.”

She added that “the procedures required to obtain approval change regularly,” as the occupation authorities frequently add new conditions without clear explanation, while also tightening the requirements for medical supplies to enter the Strip.

The WHO representative stressed that obtaining initial approval does not necessarily guarantee that supplies will reach their destination, as additional procedures and inspections are still required before entry into Gaza. Moreover, some shipments may be rejected even after initial approval has been granted.

She expressed concern over the repeated refusal by the occupation authorities to allow essential equipment, including X-ray machines, sterilization equipment, and spare parts for computed tomography (CT) scanners, without providing reasons.

She warned that delays in storage threaten the validity of medicines and the integrity of medical equipment before they reach the patients who need them, calling for the large-scale entry of humanitarian aid and health supplies into Gaza.

She also urged the provision of clear and published guidelines regarding procedures and requirements for the entry of supplies, in order to minimize rejections and delays. (End) A.M.Kh./A.M.S.