As states debate the findings of the UN Commission of Inquiry into the 2014 Gaza Conflict in Geneva today, Medical Aid for Palestinians have been highlighting attacks on hospitals, clinics and ambulances and obstructions to medical access which occurred last summer. This morning, we delivered the following statement, calling for further investigation and accountability for those responsible for such attacks:
Thank you Mr President,
Medical Aid for Palestinians welcomes the report of the Commission of Inquiry and the process of investigation the Commission’s establishment has enabled.
It is right that this investigation and discussion should originate from this institution, however it is also crucial that the Council ensure this process does not end here.
The findings of the report, and its recommendations, must form the basis of further steps in the pursuit of critically needed accountability to prevent recurrence of attacks.
Three large-scale military offensives in six years, four in ten years, and the continuing 8-year closure and blockade of Gaza have placed extreme pressures on Gaza’s health sector and the realisation of the right to health for Palestinians.
Three large-scale military offensives in six years, four in ten years, and the continuing 8-year closure and blockade of Gaza have placed extreme pressures on Gaza’s health sector and the realisation of the right to health for Palestinians.
Recurring investigations by this and other national and international bodies have so far failed to provide any change. The continuation of impunity has only led to worsening conditions.
The Commission’s report highlights several cases of attacks on medical infrastructure and personnel, as well as incidents where medical access to the wounded was obstructed. Ensuring the prevention of future incidents of this kind is a legal, political and medical imperative for the international community.
These incidents must be further scrutinised via an impartial and thorough investigation, with access to speak to witnesses and analyse the locations of attacks, which the Commission was unfortunately not granted. Wherever breaches of international law are identified, accountability for those responsible, regardless of their identity, is an essential element for preventing recurrence.
The pursuit of all possible avenues towards accountability is in the best interests of all who place civilian lives above the achievement of military objectives. Investigation into the destruction of the Al-Wafa hospital, the death and injury of almost one hundred medical workers and the destruction or damaging of 45 ambulances is not a partisan or political act.
Investigation into the destruction of the Al-Wafa hospital, the death and injury of almost one hundred medical workers and the destruction or damaging of 45 ambulances is not a partisan or political act.
Hospitals and medics must be protect in times of conflict. It is essential for their own safety, the safety of those whose lives they work to save and also for the long-term realisation of the right to health of all Palestinians.
Thank you