On the final day of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) annual assembly, a resolution was approved that condemned Israeli attacks on healthcare facilities in Gaza. The resolution was initiated by a group of Arab countries and resulted from intense debate, including a section denouncing the use of hospitals and health facilities by armed groups, particularly referencing Hamas in Gaza.
Despite initial pushback from Israel, they successfully included a clause demanding the release of hostages and condemning the use of health facilities by armed groups in the text. However, after strong opposition from Arab countries, a new amendment was presented and approved, denouncing Israeli abuses of the Palestinian healthcare system. The resolution also called for an investigation into the impact of the conflict on malnutrition in Gaza and a donor conference within 12 months to address Palestine’s immediate health needs and rebuild its health system.
During the assembly, Palestine’s status within the WHO was elevated to observer member, allowing for greater participation and proposal presentation. Although they still do not have the right to vote, this change provides more opportunities for the Palestinian delegation to engage with member states. The assembly concluded after six days of discussions, with the resolution garnering support from 102 member states and opposition from six, including Israel, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
