The World Health Organization has suspended medical evacuation operations from Gaza to Egypt through the Rafah crossing until further notice, following the killing of one of its contracted workers by Israeli fire.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a statement that the organization was “shocked” by the confirmed death of a contracted worker providing services in Gaza during a security incident on Monday.
He noted that two WHO staff members were present during the incident but were not injured. Following the attack, the organization decided to halt all medical evacuation missions for patients seeking treatment outside Gaza.
According to reports, Israeli forces opened direct fire at a WHO vehicle and a civilian car, killing one person and injuring four others.
Tedros expressed appreciation for humanitarian workers operating under dangerous conditions, saying they continue to work “day and night” to ensure Gaza’s population can access essential healthcare. He also called for the protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel, stressing that “peace is the best medicine.”
The suspension of evacuations further deepens Gaza’s healthcare crisis, as thousands of wounded and chronically ill patients struggle to access treatment. Patients with cancer and other serious conditions are among those most affected.
The Rafah crossing remains the only gateway for Gaza residents to leave the territory without passing through Israeli-controlled areas. However, Israeli forces have maintained control over the Palestinian side of the crossing since May 2024, leaving it largely closed and severely restricting movement.
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