Geneva: The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas is causing a devastating toll on health in the Gaza Strip, according to the head of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. The UN health agency convened a special session of the WHO executive board to address the deteriorating health conditions in the Palestinian territories.

In his opening remarks, Tedros described the situation as catastrophic, emphasizing the collapse of the health system in Gaza. He highlighted the challenges faced by medical professionals, characterizing their job as "impossible." The increasing overcrowding, coupled with inadequate access to essential resources like food, water, shelter, and sanitation, is creating ideal conditions for the spread of diseases, Tedros warned.

The WHO chief expressed concerns about the emergence of epidemic diseases, anticipating heightened risks with the deteriorating situation and approaching winter conditions. In Gaza, the health system is reportedly on the verge of collapse, with only 14 out of 36 hospitals functioning to some extent. Among them, only two are operational in the northern part of the territory.

Tedros revealed that of the original 3,500 hospital beds, only 1,400 remain available. Major hospitals in southern Gaza are operating at three times their bed capacity, facing shortages of supplies and providing shelter to thousands of displaced individuals.

Since October 7, amid the intensified conflict, the WHO has verified over 449 attacks on healthcare facilities in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, with an additional 60 attacks on healthcare in Israel. Tedros stressed the immense challenges faced by health workers who are operating in perilous conditions and called for urgent support.

The WHO chief concluded with a poignant statement, asserting, "There is no health without peace, and no peace without health." The international community is urged to address the escalating health crisis in the region amid the ongoing conflict.