UN Coordinator Praises UAE For Significant Medical Evacuation From Gaza

The UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza, Sigrid Kaag, praised the recent medical evacuation of 252 patients and family members to the UAE. She described it as the largest evacuation so far and a positive step forward.

Kaag emphasised that despite this progress, much more needs to be done. Over 14,000 patients in Gaza require specialised treatment outside the region. She urged all Member States to show solidarity by hosting these patients and their families.

In her briefing to the Security Council on September 16, Kaag highlighted the dire situation in Gaza. "In Gaza, more than 41,000 Palestinians have been killed, and over 93,000 have been injured," she stated. Recent data from the World Health Organisation indicate that over 22,000 people have suffered life-altering injuries.

Many of those injured have sustained severe limb injuries, often leading to amputation. The number of such cases ranges between 13,000 to 17,000. Kaag noted that many individuals suffer from multiple injuries. The health infrastructure in Gaza has been severely damaged and is struggling to cope with the crisis.

Kaag also mentioned a vaccination campaign led by WHO, UNRWA and UNICEF in the Gaza Strip. "Following intensive coordination, the first round of a two-round vaccination campaign led by WHO, UNRWA and UNICEF has successfully been completed," she said. The second phase is expected to start in about four weeks.

International Community's Role

Kaag stressed the international community's responsibility to provide protection and aid. She called for steadfast advocacy for lasting peace—a secure Israel and a fully independent, viable Palestinian state.

"The recent medical evacuation of 252 patients and family members, in this case to the United Arab Emirates - the largest so far - is a good development; however, much more is needed," she reiterated during her briefing.

The ongoing conflict has left many with severe injuries that require urgent attention. Kaag's call for international support aims to address these critical needs while advocating for long-term peace solutions.

With inputs from WAM