WHO Chief Appeals for Mercy as Gaza Humanitarian Crisis Worsens

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent plea to Israel to show “mercy” in Gaza, where 2.1 million people face “imminent danger of death” due to severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies, Arab News reported.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, speaking emotionally at the annual assembly, warned that the conflict is harming Israel’s long-term security and called for a political solution. Only 19 of Gaza’s 36 hospitals remain operational, with 94% damaged or destroyed, leaving just 2,000 beds for a population in crisis.

Israel continues military operations in Gaza, issuing evacuation warnings for 14 northern neighborhoods amid international condemnation. British doctors working in Gaza describe the territory as a “slaughterhouse,” with malnourished patients and collapsing healthcare.

In Lebanon, Israeli airstrikes targeted Hezbollah sites, violating a fragile ceasefire. Global responses include potential EU sanctions and UK suspension of trade talks with Israel. Egypt and the UK emphasized coordinated efforts to deliver aid and broker peace.