WHO evacuates nearly 100 patients from Gaza in biggest operation yet

Title: WHO Evacuates Nearly 100 Patients from Gaza in Biggest Operation Yet

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Abstract: In a monumental humanitarian effort, the World Health Organization (WHO) has evacuated 97 patients, including 45 children, from Gaza to Abu Dhabi for urgent medical attention. This operation, the largest since October 2023, underscores the dire need for medical evacuations in the Gaza Strip, where the healthcare system has been severely damaged by prolonged conflict.

Evacuation Details

The evacuation, which occurred on 09/12/2024, was a collaborative effort involving the WHO, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other partners. The patients, who suffer from a range of serious conditions including cancer, cardiovascular disease, congenital anomalies, blood and liver diseases, and trauma, were transported from Gaza via Kerem Shalom to Ramon Airport in Israel for onward travel to Abu Dhabi.

Medically Critical Patients: The group included 45 children, 52 adults, and 8 patients with critical conditions who were transferred from Gaza City to the European Gaza Hospital just in time for the evacuation. Fuel was also delivered to support ongoing polio vaccination efforts.

Operational Challenges

Despite the challenges posed by intense Israeli attacks and security concerns, the WHO and its partners ensured the safe transfer of the patients. This highly complex operation was completed under immense time pressure, bringing all patients together efficiently.

Partner Collaboration: The UAE government was instrumental in facilitating this evacuation, demonstrating its commitment to humanitarian aid and medical diplomacy. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed gratitude for the UAE's collaboration and urged for the establishment of evacuation corridors via all possible routes.

Historical Context

The operation marked a significant milestone in the history of medical evacuations from Gaza. Gaza's health system has been severely compromised, with only 17 of 36 hospitals partially functioning. The Rafah crossing into Egypt, a vital route for medical transfers, has been closed since May due to Israel's intensified military campaign. The situation is further highlighted by the fact that over 10,000 Gazans are awaiting medical transfer.

Impact and Future Needs

The evacuation highlights the urgent need for regular, sustained medical evacuations from Gaza. Richard Peeperkorn, WHO's representative for the Palestinian territory, emphasized that the need for medical corridors is critical. The conflict has left 22,500 Palestinians with life-changing injuries, such as missing limbs, underscoring the immense need for rehabilitation services in the region for years to come.

Conclusion

The WHO's evacuation of 97 patients from Gaza is a testament to the organization's dedication to providing critical medical care to those in need. This operation, the largest since October 2023, underscores the severity of the situation in Gaza and the necessity for continued humanitarian support. As the WHO continues to advocate for the establishment of evacuation corridors, it is essential that the international community remains committed to ensuring the well-being of the people of Gaza.

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References

1. WHO says 97 wounded, sick Palestinians evacuated from Gaza to Abu Dhabi for treatment
2. WHO evacuates nearly 100 patients from Gaza in biggest operation
3. In a rare operation, WHO evacuates nearly 100 patients from Gaza to UAE for medical treatment
4. WHO Evacuates Nearly 100 Patients From Gaza in Biggest Operation Yet
5. WHO evacuates nearly 100 patients from Gaza to UAE