From the Security Council: UN Praises UAE’s Role in Evacuating Gaza Patients

17th September 2024

2 minutes read

From the Security Council: UN Praises UAE’s Role in Evacuating Gaza Patients

The relentless humanitarian efforts of the United Arab Emirates to support Palestinians, especially those in need of medical care from Gaza, have earned praise from Sigrid Kaag, the UN’s senior coordinator for humanitarian affairs and reconstruction in Gaza.

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In a briefing she presented to members of the UN Security Council during today’s meeting on the vaccination campaign, jointly implemented by the World Health Organization, UNRWA, and UNICEF, Kaag commended the humanitarian role played by the UAE in evacuating 252 patients from Gaza to receive medical care.

Kaag confirmed in her briefing that the first phase of this campaign had been successfully completed, while the second phase of the vaccination campaign will begin in approximately four weeks.

She added, “The polio vaccination campaign has shown that humanitarian work is possible even under the most difficult circumstances, given sufficient political will and commitment.”

At the same time, Sigrid Kaag emphasized the “deep responsibility” the international community bears in addressing the tragedy in Gaza, describing the situation there as “deplorable, bleak, and heartbreaking.”

She noted that “there are more than 14,000 patients in need of treatment, and with the approaching winter, addressing these humanitarian needs has become even more urgent.”

Kaag highlighted the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by nearly a year of conflict, which has resulted in the death of over 41,000 Palestinians, with 93,000 others injured, while more than 22,000 people currently suffer from life-changing injuries.

She pointed out that severe limb injuries, estimated between 13,000 to 17,000 cases, often lead to amputation, which is a “sad reflection” of the tragedy caused by this war.

Kaag also noted that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has led to the collapse of essential services, including healthcare and education, with 625,000 children unable to attend school.

At the same time, the UN official called for the immediate and unconditional release of 101 hostages held by Hamas.

She also highlighted the crucial role played by UNRWA, describing it as the backbone of humanitarian operations in the region.

Kaag concluded by stating that the continuation of hostilities, lawlessness, and logistical challenges are the primary obstacles hindering effective humanitarian operations.