The RCN reiterates its calls for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in the conflict in the Middle East. The UK government must work with international partners to demand an end to the deliberate targeting of health workers and health systems.
We stand in solidarity with our colleagues across the region who are delivering care in impossible circumstances and condemn every attack on nursing staff and their patients.
This month, the UN Independent Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel, issued a new report in which ordered the
immediate end to all attacks on health care facilities, describing the destruction as
“unprecedented”.
The UN commission’s report finds that “Israel has implemented a concerted policy to destroy the health care system of Gaza”, including the deliberate killing, detention and torture of medical personnel, in direct violation of international humanitarian law. The RCN is gravely concerned by these findings.
The deliberate destruction of health infrastructure continues to have a catastrophic impact on the delivery of care amidst a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. UN agencies report a significant risk of famine across Gaza, and estimates suggest that more than 50,000 children are in need of immediate treatment for acute malnutrition.
The RCN has also called for the immediate release of hostages in Gaza. It is vital that all those held captive have access to health care and are treated in accordance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law.
It is critical that the protections afforded to nursing staff and health systems under the Geneva Conventions and international law are upheld.
Nursing staff everywhere must be able to work without the threat of violence or obstruction to the delivery of care. Those who deliberately target nursing staff, health workers and health infrastructure should face swift justice.
The killing of any member of nursing staff, in any context, for any reason is completely unacceptable.
Our thoughts are with all those affected by the conflict and with our colleagues across the region who continue to deliver care amid war, and insecurity.
We know many RCN members will be concerned for family and friends in the area. The RCN is here to help 365 days a year with advice and support for all members.
