NEW YORK: The United Nations on Monday criticized Israeli military operations in Gaza, specifically targeting hospitals, including the Kamal Adwan Hospital, which has been rendered non-operational. The UN highlighted the critical need for respecting civilian infrastructure, urging for the protection of hospitals as essential safe spaces for individuals seeking medical aid.
According to Anadolu Agency, Florencia Soto Nino, the UN chief's associate spokesperson, emphasized the organization's stance during a news conference, stating, "We've been very clear in the fact that we condemn any action that targets civilians and civilian infrastructure, and hospitals." Nino reiterated the call for respecting these areas, noting their importance as places for medical assistance.
Addressing the detention of Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, the director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, by Israeli forces, Nino remarked, "Anyone that is innocent civilian who is trying to help others should not be detained." She underscored the UN's long-standing concern over the lack of safe spaces in Gaza and expressed readiness to collaborate with entities willing to support civilian safety, including the hospital director's case.
Citing the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Nino reported that ten patients had been evacuated from Kamal Adwan Hospital, with four arrested by Israeli forces at the checkpoint. Seven patients, along with 15 caregivers and health workers, remain in the severely damaged facility, which is now incapable of providing medical care due to the lack of water, electricity, and sanitation.
Nino highlighted ongoing restrictions on aid imposed by Israel, stating that these obstacles "continue to paralyze the humanitarian operation at times when families urgently need food, shelter, clothing," especially as winter exacerbates the situation. She noted OCHA's warning that essential survival means are being dismantled, including healthcare, emergency services, and humanitarian access, amid continuous attacks causing civilian casualties.