Karachi, The medical community in Pakistan has voiced its strong condemnation of Israel’s recent attack on Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over a thousand innocent patients, citizens, and healthcare workers.

In a press conference held at the Press Club Karachi, representatives from various medical associations, including the Pakistan Islamic Medical Association (PIMA), Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), and Young Doctors Association (YDA) expressed their outrage. Speakers highlighted that the Geneva Convention mandates the protection of healthcare facilities, workers, and medical aid during conflicts. Yet, Israel has deprived Palestinians in Gaza of essential medical aid, they emphasized. The bombardment of the Al-Ahli Hospital was cited as a particularly egregious act, given the loss of life of patients and civilians seeking shelter at the hospital.

The medical representatives questioned international bodies, including the UNO and WHO, as well as the Pakistani government and other world governments, on their lack of intervention. They questioned why medical aid was not reaching Gaza, even when global entities, including organizations in Pakistan, are ready to assist the war-affected region.

In a united call to action, the speakers at the conference demanded various measures:

Hospitals and medical institutions in Pakistan are to observe a “BLACK DAY” on 19th October 2023, where medical personnel are urged to wear black ribbon bands as a sign of protest, while continuing their regular duties. Peaceful demonstrations are also encouraged.

The Pakistani Government is urged to denounce Israel’s actions in the strongest terms.

Muslim-majority countries are called upon to reconsider their relations with Israel, emphasizing their shared responsibility in alleviating the suffering of Palestinians.

An immediate dispatch of medical and humanitarian aid to Gaza by the Pakistani government, recognizing the deteriorating health care infrastructure in the region and the readiness of Pakistani healthcare professionals to assist.

A halt to the trade of all products in Pakistan that are produced by or supported by Israel.

This collective stance by Pakistan’s medical community signifies a growing concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and calls for immediate action.