The Maldives has called for an immediate end to Israel's inhumane attacks on Gaza, Palestine's health system, ambulances and medical personnel.
Speaking at the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim condemned Israel’s assaults on Gaza's health system and access healthcare, and called for urgent international intervention.
Minister Nazim highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, and expressed concern that the people of Gaza are not guaranteed the protection and rights assured by international law. The Minister also drew attention to the destruction of Gaza’s health system, the displacement of thousands, the attacks on health facilities and medical workers and the obstruction of humanitarian aid. As a result, the people of Gaza have been deprived of their most basic rights, he noted.
The Minister reiterated that the Maldives strongly condemns Israel's genocidal attacks on Gaza, and demanded an immediate end to the attacks. He called to ensure the safe provision of healthcare, and the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid, including food, fuel and medical supplies. He also stressed the need for the provision of psychological support, child healthcare services and vaccination to prevent diseases.
Minister Nazim also called on countries and donors to increase their financial assistance to the World Health Organization (WHO) to support their efforts to assist Gaza.
The Health Minister further called on international organisations and UN member states to take swift action to stop the attacks on Gaza. He stated that human rights should be guaranteed for all, regardless of nationality and ethnicity. The Minister also assured that the Maldives is committed to supporting all efforts to safeguard the rights of the Palestinian people. He further reiterated Maldives’ unwavering solidarity with Palestine.