The head of the World Health Organization expressed grave concern following the approval of plans for an offensive in Rafah, the southernmost city in Gaza, by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that further escalation of violence in this densely populated area could result in increased casualties and suffering, particularly as existing health facilities are already overwhelmed.
According to Netanyahu's office, the Israel Defense Forces are making preparations for the operational aspects of the offensive and for the evacuation of the population. However, the White House has not yet received any plans, including strategies for ensuring the safety of an estimated 1.4 million displaced Palestinians in Rafah.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted the dire situation faced by Palestinians in Rafah, noting that they lack safe relocation options and access to fully functional and secure health facilities elsewhere in Gaza. He pointed out that many individuals are too vulnerable, malnourished, and unwell to endure further displacement.
In a plea for peace and humanity, the WHO chief urged Israel to reconsider its decision and instead focus on fostering peace. He stressed that allowing the humanitarian crisis in Rafah to deteriorate further would be unacceptable and called for immediate efforts to prevent further suffering.
