Taoiseach,
We recognise the diplomatic and economic contributions the Irish government have recently made to address the crisis in Gaza in the face of strong criticism. We, the undersigned healthcare organisations and groups, are writing to collectively express our deep concern about the current situation in Gaza, and we are calling on the government to increase their efforts to prevent further mortality and morbidity.
According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, between the 7th and 29th of October, approximately 8,005 Palestinians and 1,400 Israelis have been killed. Mortality and morbidity is likely to increase as a result of the continued airstrikes, as well as the lack of access to food and water, and poor sanitation conditions across Gaza.
On the 29th of October, only 33 trucks carrying food, water and medical supplies were permitted to enter Gaza through the Rafah crossing with Egypt. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, this is equivalent to about 7% of the aid delivered daily to Gaza before the 7th of October. Access to food, water, sanitation and healthcare are fundamental human rights. The restrictions on deliveries of medical supplies and equipment have led to dire consequences, leaving those in need of medical attention at great risk. Fuel reserves, which were not permitted to be included in aid deliveries, are nearly exhausted in Gaza. The UNRWA’s Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini has said that “no fuel will further strangle the children, women and people of Gaza.”
Of further concern are the attacks on healthcare in Gaza. Such actions not only jeopardize the lives of medical professionals but also endanger countless civilians, which is a clear violation of international humanitarian law. According to a UN report on the 17th of October, there had been over 115 attacks on healthcare across Palestinian land in the preceding ten days, and this figure has increased significantly since then.
As you, Taoiseach, have consistently pointed out to your fellow EU leaders, it is our collective responsibility to address the suffering of innocent civilians who bear the brunt of conflicts beyond their control.
We jointly urge the Irish government to take the following actions:
- Increase diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire
- Use diplomatic channels to try to ensure long-term unobstructed and safe delivery routes for lifesaving humanitarian aid supplies to Gaza including medical supplies and equipment. This must also include fuel as it is vital to the functioning of the health system in Gaza.
- Further increase financial support for humanitarian organisations working in Palestine, particularly those focused on healthcare and medical assistance.
- Continue to publicly condemn any breaches of international law such as attacks on healthcare facilities in Gaza, calling for thorough investigations and the accountability of those responsible.
- Continue to advocate at the international level for a long-term peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict
By taking these collective actions, the Irish government can play a pivotal role in upholding human rights, alleviating suffering in Gaza, and advancing the cause of peace and justice in the region. We firmly believe that Ireland, with its longstanding commitment to human rights and humanitarian values, has the potential to make a significant positive impact. Thank you for your attention on this critical issue.
Sincerely,
- Access to Medicines Ireland
- Action Aid Ireland
- The Association of Leaders of Missionaries and Religious of Ireland
- Comhlámh
- Comhlámh Justice for Palestine
- Irish Global Health Network
- Irish Society of Specialists in Public Health Medicine
- Safetynet Primary Care
- Spirasi
- Trinity College Dublin Centre for Global Health