The ongoing violence in the West Bank, which has been under Israeli occupation since 1967, has been exacerbating a healthcare crisis in the region for over a year. Recently, attacks by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on southern Israel have escalated, resulting in repeated targeting of health facilities in both Gaza and the West Bank.
Between October and May, there were 480 documented attacks on healthcare facilities in the West Bank, including ambulances. Health workers and patients have also been detained during this time. The UN health body, World Health Organization (WHO), has raised concerns that restrictions on movement, violence, and attacks on healthcare are hindering residents’ ability to access medical care.
In response to the situation, primary care clinics and outpatient specialty clinics in most areas of the West Bank are now operating only two days a week. Hospitals are operating at around 70% capacity. The WHO has issued a statement on social media calling for immediate and active protection of civilians and healthcare in the West Bank.
The surge in violence has placed a significant strain on already struggling healthcare facilities in the region, resulting in an increased burden of trauma and emergency care. According to the WHO, between October and May 2019, there were 521 Palestinians who died and over 5,200 who were injured as a result of Israeli-Hamas war in Gaza attacks by Hamas on Israel. This has led to an urgent need for immediate action to protect civilians and ensure access to medical care for those affected by this conflict.
The WHO is not only calling for immediate protection but also long-term solutions that address the root causes of this conflict. They urge governments to take responsibility for ensuring that their citizens can access medical care without fear of violence or intimidation.
It is crucial that we take action now to stop this cycle of violence and ensure that everyone can access medical care without fear or intimidation.