HAMILTON (Canada), Dec 31 (Bernama-AA) -- The UN on Monday denounced Israeli military operations targeting hospitals in Gaza, including Kamal Adwan Hospital, now rendered non-operational, Anadolu Agency reported.
"We've been very clear in the fact that we condemn any action that targets civilians and civilian infrastructure, and hospitals. We've called repeatedly for them to be respected as this is a safe space area where people go to seek medical assistance," Florencia Soto Nino, the UN chief’s associate spokesperson, told reporters during a news conference.
Asked about Israel detaining of the director of the Kamal Adwan Hospital Dr Hussam Abu Safiya in Gaza, Nino said: "Anyone that is innocent civilian who is trying to help others should not be detained."
"I think we have been talking about this for a long time there is no safe space in Gaza," she said, adding that the UN is ready to work with anyone who would support its work to ensure safety of civilians including the director.
Citing UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Nino said that "10 patients were evacuated from the (Kamal Adwan) hospital, four of whom were arrested by Israeli forces at the checkpoint leaving the area."
"Seven patients, along with 15 caregivers and health workers, remain at the facility, which is severely damaged and has no ability now to provide medical care. The team reported also that the hospital has no water, electricity or sanitation," she said.
Stressing that Israel's restrictions on aid continues, she stated that such impediments "continue to paralyze the humanitarian operation at times when families urgently need food, shelter, clothing, especially as the winter is hitting them hard."
"OCHA today warned that the very means of people's survival are being dismantled. This includes an onslaught on healthcare, emergency services and humanitarian access, alongside relentless attacks that kill and maim civilians by the hour," she added.
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