$10bn needed to restore Gaza’s shattered healthcare system – WHO

The World Health Organisation has highlighted the potential positive impact of the Gaza ceasefire on aid deliveries, estimating that up to 600 trucks could be entering the region daily. The organisation emphasized the urgent need for over $10 billion to rehabilitate Gaza’s healthcare system, which has been severely affected by the recent conflicts.

The WHO representative in the Occupied Palestinian Territories expressed optimism about the ceasefire deal, anticipating a significant increase in aid shipments compared to previous months. Despite the positive outlook, challenges such as shortages of food, fuel, and medical supplies persist, underscoring the immense task ahead.

Plans are underway to initiate deliveries soon, including the setup of temporary medical facilities to address pressing health needs. The situation in Gaza has been described as catastrophic, with thousands of casualties and critical shortages exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Efforts to restore healthcare services, combat malnutrition, and enhance disease surveillance are part of a comprehensive emergency response plan set to be implemented by WHO post-ceasefire. International support is crucial to prevent further loss of life and ensure the region’s healthcare infrastructure does not collapse entirely.

The immediate focus remains on providing essential aid such as food, water, shelter, and medical supplies to the vulnerable population in Gaza. Despite the challenging circumstances, international agencies are committed to delivering assistance and are hopeful that the ceasefire will bring much-needed relief to the besieged enclave.