Title: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Doctors Killed in Strike on Al-Awda Hospital in Gaza
In a devastating incident, two Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) doctors, Dr Mahmoud Abu Nujaila and Dr Ahmad Al Sahar, were tragically killed in a strike on Al-Awda hospital in Gaza, Palestine. Another doctor, Dr Ziad Al-Tatari, also lost his life in the attack. The hospital, which serves as one of the few remaining functional medical facilities in northern Gaza, was struck on the third and fourth floors while the doctors were inside.
As a result of the strike, several other medical staff, including MSF healthcare workers, sustained severe injuries. MSF had informed both parties involved in the conflict about the hospital’s function and the presence of their staff. Despite this, the strike took place, prompting MSF to strongly condemn the attack and call for the respect and protection of medical facilities, staff, and patients.
Tragically, over 200 patients currently remain in Al-Awda hospital, unable to receive the critical care they urgently need. Their safe and urgent evacuation to other functioning hospitals is imperative. The hospital had already been facing challenges due to ongoing supply shortages, attacks on medical facilities, and a high influx of patients since October. This incident is not an isolated one, as MSF staff have encountered similar threats while providing medical care to hundreds of patients in Gaza in recent days.
These attacks on medical facilities are clear violations of International Humanitarian Law, and they have become increasingly systematic in recent weeks. MSF is calling for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of lives. Furthermore, they demand the lifting of the siege and the protection of medical facilities and staff.
Since 2018, MSF has been actively working in Al-Awda hospital, providing essential reconstructive and trauma surgeries. The organization pays tribute to the bravery of their colleagues, who continue to work under dangerous circumstances, and mourns the loss of Dr Abu Nujaila and Dr Al Sahar.
With such tragic incidents highlighting the urgent need for increased protection of medical facilities and personnel, it is crucial that immediate action is taken to prevent further loss of life and ensure the safety and well-being of all those involved in providing vital healthcare services in Gaza.
