Sindh Caretaker Health Minister Dr Saad Khalid Niaz condemning continuous Israeli air strikes on the Gaza Strip appealed to the international community to protect hospitals in war-hit Gaza.
In a time of conflict, it is imperative to protect essential institutions, including hospitals, schools, and places of worship, Dr Khalid emphasised in his statement.
Dr Saad Khalid has voiced deep concern over the devastating toll of Israeli attacks, highlighting that the majority of the casualties are innocent children and women. Israel's actions have reached a level of cruelty and brutality that extends to the targeting of hospitals.
The health minister firmly stated that by targeting hospitals, schools, places of worship, and residential buildings, Israel is in clear violation of established laws of war.
In a recent Israeli assault on Al Ahli Arab Hospital, approximately 500 injured were killed including doctors, and paramedical staff also lost their lives.
Furthermore, Israel's decision to cease the supply of medicines and fuel to Palestinian hospitals has forced several healthcare facilities in Gaza to close their doors. This has led to the unfortunate postponement of critical vaccinations and life-saving surgeries.
Dr Khalid pointed out that despite this ongoing brutality, Israel's continued threat to evacuate hospitals is not only deeply shameful but also inhumane.
He urged the international community to take notice of Israel's extreme acts and exert pressure to prevent the targeting of hospitals.
He appealed to organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), Red Crescent, and various medical institutions to intensify their efforts in urging Israel to resume the supply of essential medicines and fuel to hospitals.
In addition, Dr Khalid called upon the Islamic world to unite in condemning Israel's deliberate targeting of hospitals, schools, places of worship, and residential buildings.
He stressed the importance of Islamic countries playing a pivotal role in delivering essential medical equipment, medicines, and fuel to Gaza hospitals, thereby mitigating the suffering of innocent civilians.
The world must stand together against such acts of brutality, and it is crucial that Israel be held accountable for its actions.
Dr Saad Khalid Niaz remains committed to ensuring the protection of healthcare facilities during times of conflict and the provision of much-needed medical support to the people of Gaza.
