WHO chief says 'we are still out of touch with our staff' in Gaza

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - The World Health Organization (WHO) chief on Saturday said the UN health agency had not been able to establish communication with its staff in Gaza, where Israel's intense attacks has led to the breakdown of communication networks.

"Reports of intense bombardment in Gaza are extremely distressing. Evacuation of patients is not possible under such circumstances, nor to find safe shelter," he said on X.

"The blackout is also making it impossible for ambulances to reach the injured. We are still out of touch with our staff and health facilities. I’m worried about their safety," he added.

In a separate statement, the WHO issued a fervent plea for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire and the protection of innocent lives caught in the crossfire in Gaza.

The "WHO reiterates its calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, and reminds all parties to the conflict to take all precautions to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure," it said on X.

"This includes health workers, patients, health facilities and ambulances, and civilians who are sheltering in these facilities. Active measures must be taken to ensure they are not harmed and safe passage provided for the movement of desperately needed medical supplies, fuel, water and food into and across Gaza."

"Reports of bombardment near the Indonesia and Al Shifa hospitals are gravely concerning. WHO reiterates that it is impossible to evacuate patients without endangering their lives," it added.

"WHO appeals to the humanity in all those who have the power to do so to end the fighting now, in line with the UN resolution adopted yesterday, calling for a humanitarian truce, as well as the immediate and unconditional release of all civilians held captive," it said.

Israel has heavily bombarded Gaza since Oct. 7 when Palestinian group Hamas carried out a cross-border attack, killing 1,400 people, and taking many hostages.

The Health Ministry in the Gaza Strip said the Israeli strikes had now killed at least 7,703 people, mainly civilians and many of them children.

The UN General Assembly on Friday approved a resolution calling for a humanitarian truce, but Israel's Foreign Minister Eli Cohen called it “despicable” and rejected it.