Urgent Call for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid in Gaza December 28, 2023

CONTACT: Isabella Javidan , ijavidan@psr.org , 612-812-3231

As Physicians for Social Responsibility, we are deeply troubled by the catastrophic situation in Gaza. The recent military actions have led to a collapse of the health system, claiming the lives of at least 20,000 people, 70% of whom being women and children. 

In this season of peace and goodwill, it is particularly heart-wrenching to witness such devastation and suffering. Israel’s hostilities have displaced nearly all of Gaza’s 2.2 million residents, causing overcrowding, especially in southern Gaza, including Rafah and Al-Mawasi. Despite being “safe zones,” these areas are still under bombardment. The living conditions are abhorrent: overcrowded tent encampments, lack of clean water, and inadequate sanitary facilities are leading to the rapid spread of diseases.

Dr. Tamer M. Alnajjar from the National Institute for Environment & Development in Gaza City has noted that water contamination and sewage proliferation are increasing waterborne illness risks. Three-quarters of Gaza’s hospitals are non-functional due to direct attacks and expulsion orders. This has led to a critical shortage of medical services, with hospitals unable to treat the sick, especially children.

Given these alarming conditions, PSR urgently calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. We urge the international community to prioritize providing essential medical supplies, restoring healthcare facilities, and supporting water and sanitation infrastructure. Resuming vaccination programs and providing nutritional support, especially for children and pregnant women, is vital.

We stand in solidarity with healthcare professionals in Gaza and all striving to provide care under deplorable conditions. The world must not remain silent in the face of this humanitarian disaster.