WHO expresses concerns about health crisis in West Bank

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about the escalating violence in the West Bank, stating that it is exacerbating a healthcare crisis in the region. The conflict that erupted eight months ago following attacks by the militant group Hamas on southern Israel has led to health facilities in Gaza and the West Bank being repeatedly targeted.

The WHO has documented 480 attacks in the West Bank between October and May, including incidents involving ambulances, as well as the detention of health workers and patients. These attacks, combined with restrictions on movement and ongoing violence, have made it difficult for residents to access essential medical care.

Due to the situation, primary care clinics and outpatient specialty clinics in most areas of the West Bank are only operating two days a week, while hospitals are operating at around 70% capacity. In response to this crisis, the WHO is calling for immediate action to protect civilians and healthcare facilities in the West Bank.

The surge in violence in the West Bank has been ongoing for over a year, with a significant escalation occurring during the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The WHO reports that 521 Palestinians have lost their lives and more than 5,200 have been injured since the beginning of the attacks by Hamas on Israel in October.

The agency has expressed concern about the increasing burden on health facilities in the region as they struggle to cope with the influx of trauma and emergency cases. The WHO is urging for urgent measures to be taken to address the healthcare crisis and ensure the safety of civilians in the West Bank.