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Tedros Ghebreyesus, secretary-general of the World Health Organization, warns of catastrophic consequences if Israel launches a ground operation in Rafah
Tedros Ghebreyesus, secretary-general of the World Health Organization (WHO), expressed profound concern over the potential consequences of Israel's planned ground offensive in Rafah. He warned that such a large-scale military operation could result in a bloodbath and exacerbate the already dire state of the health system in the region.
As Israel continues to target civilians across the Gaza Strip, its planned large-scale ground attack on the southern city of Rafah is causing concern.
In a statement, Ghebreyesus emphasized that any assault on the ground in Rafah, where approximately 1.5 million Palestinians reside, would result in catastrophic consequences.
“We are deeply concerned that a large-scale army operation in Rafah will further weaken the collapsed health system,” Ghebreyesus said.
“A new wave of displacement would exacerbate overcrowding, further restrict access to food, water, sanitation and health services, increase disease outbreaks, worsen hunger and lead to more casualties,” said Ghebreyesus.
Calling for a cease-fire to prevent further massacres in Rafah, Ghebreyesus said: “WHO calls for an immediate and lasting ceasefire and the removal of obstacles to the delivery of urgent humanitarian assistance to the Gaza Strip on the scale required.”
Israel's ongoing attacks on Gaza, which began on Oct. 7, have escalated with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu'sannouncement of a ground operation in Rafah, designated as a "safe zone" for those seeking refuge from the assaults. As pressure mounts for a cease-fire, the U.S. has voiced opposition to the assault on Rafah. Despite this, Netanyahu remains resolute in continuing the offensive in Rafah.
Source: Newsroom
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