The World Health Organization (WHO) chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, called for an immediate ceasefire following Israeli airstrikes on a designated “safe zone” in southern Gaza.
On Tuesday, Tedros condemned the attacks on tents housing displaced civilians in Khan Younis, locations meant to be safe for those fleeing the conflict.
The airstrikes killed at least 40 people and injured dozens more, as reported by Gaza’s civil defense service. The attacks also caused significant damage, leaving craters up to 30 feet deep.
Tedros emphasized the importance of peace, noting that medical aid cannot save lives if people continue to be killed in such conditions. Despite the conflict, a polio vaccination campaign launched in northern Gaza is expected to run until September 12.
Tedros confirmed the WHO is working to deliver fuel and supplies to keep medical services operational, especially for child vaccinations. He called for humanitarian pauses and for the protection of health workers in the region.
The Israeli military actions have resulted in the deaths of over 41,000 Palestinians since last October’s Hamas incursion, causing widespread suffering and displacement. Negotiations to end the war remain at a standstill.