Gaza is experiencing a health catastrophe that will last for generations to come, the director-general of the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that a massive increase in aid is needed to begin to address the complex needs of the Strip's population.
Israel has allowed more medical supplies and other aid to cross into Gaza since a ceasefire with Hamas came into effect on 10 October, but Dr. Tedros said levels are below those needed to rebuild the territory's healthcare system.
His intervention comes as the US attempts to shore up the ceasefire it helped to broker following an outbreak of violence at the weekend.
The agreement has been described by the White House as the first phase of a 20-point peace plan that includes an increase in the amount of aid entering Gaza, and supplies distributed without interference from either side.
Dr. Tedros welcomed the ceasefire deal but expressed disappointment that the increase in aid has been smaller than expected.
He reported that Gazans have suffered from famine, overwhelming injuries, a collapsed healthcare system, and outbreaks of disease fueled by the destruction of water and sanitation infrastructure.
Dr. Tedros emphasized that this fatal combination makes the situation catastrophic. He highlighted the long-term health implications, stating that mental health issues combined with famine will create a crisis lasting for generations.
Tom Fletcher, head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, noted that while aid groups continue their efforts, far more support is needed. The UN's World Food Programme reported that over 6,700 tonnes of food had entered Gaza since the ceasefire, yet this figure remains well below the target needed to meet the population's urgent needs.
Dr. Tedros warned that 600 aid trucks need to arrive daily in Gaza, but current deliveries average only 200 to 300 trucks. He called on Israeli authorities to separate humanitarian aid from the ongoing conflict.
The WHO chief also voiced concerns over conditions imposed on aid deliveries, stating that health supplies meant for rebuilding the healthcare system have been confiscated due to concerns they might have military applications.
Thousands of Palestinians await medical evacuation flights—a pressing issue noted by Dr. Tedros, who reported that previous waits have resulted in deaths.
Since the escalation of violence that began on October 7, 2023, at least 68,229 Palestinians have reportedly died in Israeli attacks, underscoring the urgency of restoring humanitarian aid access.
Dr. Tedros concluded with a hopeful note, recognizing that peace is crucial for health and well-being, urging for a full commitment to the ceasefire to prevent further loss of life.
