The situation in Gaza is critical. UNISON is urging branches to once again support the vital work of Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP), who are working to support the health system and provide vital supplies, medicines and humanitarian aid to Gaza, the West Bank and Lebanon.
The Israeli military assault on Gaza has devastated the territory’s health system. Hospitals, health centres and ambulances, which should be protected under international law, have been attacked with impunity.
Over 1,580 health workers have been killed, with thousands more injured and at least 360 detained. The devastating blockade, which is preventing humanitarian assistance from entering Gaza, has severely depleted essential basic medical supplies for the 47 percent of hospitals and 38 percent of primary care centres that are still partially operational.
Throughout this latest assault MAP has supported hundreds of thousands of people in Gaza to access healthcare, shelter, food and water. They have helped renovate hospitals after they were invaded and have established a MAP Solidarity Polyclinic to provide specialist care.
Over 57,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since October 2023 and a further 134,500 injured. The United Nations has warned of a critical risk of famine, with a million people facing emergency levels of food insecurity. Despite this, MAP’s local team in Gaza, supported by emergency medical teams of international specialists, have continued to provide support to the population.
MAP is also providing vital support in the West Bank, including the provision of mobile clinics for marginalised communities in the South Hebron Hills and support for communities who have been forcibly removed from refugee camps in the north.
Palestine has always been an international priority for UNISON, and we are proud to support the work of MAP. We are urging all branches to support this import appeal and give what they can to help provide lifesaving support to the people of Gaza.
The article Appeal to support the work of Medical Aid for Palestinians first appeared on the UNISON National site.
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