The International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW) unequivocally condemns the continued and escalating attacks on Gaza’s healthcare system and medical personnel by Israeli forces. The ongoing deliberate targeting of hospitals, clinics, ambulances, and healthcare workers has resulted in catastrophic loss of life and constitutes grave violations of international humanitarian law and the fundamental principles of medical neutrality.

Recent reports indicate that Israel has destroyed Gaza’s only kidney dialysis facility, leaving patients without life-saving treatment. Additionally, Israeli forces have opened fire on civilians gathered at aid distribution sites, killing dozens and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. These actions, alongside the systematic blockade of medicines, food, and other lifesaving aid, have pushed Gaza’s healthcare system to the brink of collapse and contributed to countless civilian deaths.

Under the Fourth Geneva Convention (1949), Article 18 explicitly mandates the protection of hospitals, medical personnel, and the sick and wounded during armed conflicts. Any deliberate targeting or obstruction of healthcare facilities and workers represents a grave breach of these legal obligations. Furthermore, United Nations Security Council Resolution 2286 (2016) denounces attacks on healthcare during conflict and underscores the duty of all parties to ensure unhindered access to medical services.

The deliberate destruction of Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure has deepened an already dire humanitarian crisis, depriving civilians of their basic right to health and safety. The United Nations has warned that Gazans are facing starvation because of Israel’s months-long siege. These actions undermine human dignity and perpetuate cycles of violence, making peace and justice increasingly elusive. Furthermore, using food deprivation as a weapon of war constitutes a war crime under international law. As physicians and advocates for peace, and in solidarity with our colleagues on the ground, we reaffirm the right to health as a cornerstone of peace and justice and demand the immediate cessation of hostilities targeting healthcare infrastructure and personnel in Gaza. That nuclear-armed states are involved adds to the imperative that a ceasefire needs to be achieved immediately. We call on Israel to comply with international humanitarian law and urge the global community to take swift action to ensure accountability and restore access to lifesaving medical care.

Healthcare must never be a casualty of war. Preserving medical neutrality is essential to safeguarding civilian lives and achieving sustainable peace. It is only through maintaining our humanity during times of conflict that lasting peace can be achieved.

Signed,
International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW)
June, 2025

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