United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep alarm on Sunday following an Israeli airstrike that hit the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. His spokesperson said the attack severely damaged a key medical facility already struggling under the pressure of ongoing conflict. The strike worsens the crisis for Gaza’s fragile healthcare system, where essential supplies like medicine, food, and water are rapidly dwindling. Guterres called for full respect of international humanitarian law, reminding all parties that hospitals and medical workers must be protected during armed conflicts.
UN Expresses Serious Concern Over Hospital Strike
In a statement released by the UN spokesperson, Guterres condemned the incident as a breach of international humanitarian law. The UN emphasized that all wounded people, medical staff, and facilities are protected under such law and must not be targeted.
“The Secretary-General is deeply alarmed by the strike on Al-Ahli Arab Hospital,” the statement said. “Wounded and sick individuals, as well as those caring for them, are entitled to protection.”
Gaza’s Healthcare System Faces Collapse
The Al-Ahli Hospital was one of the few remaining partially operational facilities in northern Gaza. This latest strike has added to the growing list of healthcare institutions damaged or destroyed in the conflict.
According to Gaza’s health authorities, over 70% of hospitals are now non-functional due to airstrikes, fuel shortages, and overcrowding. Many medical workers are also among the casualties.
Guterres noted that this attack “dealt a severe blow to an already devastated healthcare system.” He warned that without urgent international intervention, many more civilians could die from preventable causes.
Supplies Running Low Amid Escalating Crisis
The UN and aid groups are also warning about the growing scarcity of critical supplies. Medical resources, clean water, and food are all in short supply. Humanitarian corridors remain difficult to access due to ongoing violence and restricted border crossings.
World Health Organization (WHO) officials say many hospitals are operating without anesthesia, antibiotics, or power. Some surgeries are now being done without pain relief. The WHO has called for safe passage for aid and medical teams.
Calls for International Accountability and Ceasefire
This recent attack has prompted fresh calls from international organizations and human rights groups for accountability. Amnesty International and Doctors Without Borders have urged an independent investigation into the hospital bombing.
While Israel has not commented in detail about the Al-Ahli Hospital incident, officials continue to state that they are targeting Hamas militants and infrastructure. However, the high number of civilian casualties, especially among women and children, has raised global concern.
UN Secretary-General Guterres has repeatedly urged both sides to agree to a ceasefire. “Civilians must be protected at all times. Attacks on hospitals and medical workers are unacceptable,” he said.
Global Reactions and Ongoing Diplomatic Pressure
Countries around the world have responded with concern. Leaders from the European Union, Arab League, and African Union have all called for an end to hostilities. The United States has also urged Israel to take more care in avoiding civilian casualties, though it continues to support Israel’s right to self-defense.
UN emergency meetings are expected to continue this week, with Guterres pushing for increased humanitarian access and a pause in fighting to allow aid to enter Gaza.
A Humanitarian Crisis That Demands Urgent Action
As the conflict continues, Gaza’s civilian population is paying the highest price. More than 30,000 people have been displaced, with many seeking refuge in overcrowded shelters. Electricity is intermittent, and clean water is becoming scarce. International observers warn that unless the fighting stops, a full-scale humanitarian disaster is imminent.
