Thursday
2nd Jan 2025
Dhivehi Edition
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Maldives Condemns Israeli Attack on Gaza Hospital, Calls for Global Action
Foreign ministry: TMJ
The Maldives government has strongly condemned the burning of Kamal Adwan Hospital in the northern Gaza Strip by Israeli forces, labeling it a war crime and a grave violation of international humanitarian and human rights laws.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to intervene decisively to halt Israeli aggression in Gaza and ensure accountability for these actions.
“This heinous attack on a vital healthcare facility constitutes a war crime and is part of the ongoing relentless aggression against the Palestinian people,” the statement declared.
The Maldives reaffirmed its solidarity with Palestine, reiterating its stance for a peaceful resolution through the establishment of an independent State of Palestine within the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The attack on Kamal Adwan Hospital has further deepened Gaza's already dire health crisis, with the facility now rendered unusable. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that 60 health workers and 25 critically ill patients, including those on ventilators, remain trapped in the hospital, raising significant concerns for their safety.
Patients in moderate to severe condition have been evacuated to the destroyed Indonesian Hospital, which is no longer fully operational.
Gaza's health ministry revealed that the hospital's director, Dr. Hossam Abu Safiyeh, and several medical staff members were detained by Israeli forces. Days before the attack, Dr. Abu Safiyeh had warned of the hospital's vulnerable state, accusing Israeli forces of deliberately targeting the facility.
The assault reportedly killed five staff members and destroyed all surgery departments, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
Since October 6, Israel has intensified its military offensive in northern Gaza, justifying the actions as necessary to dismantle Hamas’ presence. The escalation has drawn widespread condemnation, with nations and organizations worldwide urging an end to the violence and the protection of civilians.