WHO Pleads for More Aid in Gaza as Israeli Takeover Looms

By: Oluwaseun Lawal

The World Health Organization is sounding the alarm. They want Israel to let more medical supplies into Gaza—fast. The health crisis there? It’s getting worse by the day.

On Tuesday, WHO’s man on the ground, Rik Peeperkorn, didn’t mince words. “We keep hearing about more aid coming in, but honestly, it’s not enough. Or it’s just too slow,” he said from Jerusalem. The group wants to stock up hospitals before Israel moves to take control of Gaza City—a move that’s already drawing heavy criticism worldwide.

Right now, getting supplies in is a nightmare. “The process is slow, complicated. Some things just aren’t allowed in at all,” Peeperkorn explained. The WHO is stuck in endless talks with Israeli officials, trying to get the basics through.

The numbers are grim. Over half the medicines needed in Gaza? Completely out of stock. Only half the hospitals are even open, and those that are, barely hanging on. Al-Shifa hospital is packed—240% over capacity. Al-Ahli? Even worse at 300%.

“Hospitals are overwhelmed. Hunger and malnutrition are everywhere,” Peeperkorn said. The stats are heartbreaking. Since the start of the year, 148 people have died from malnutrition. In July alone, nearly 12,000 kids under five were found to be acutely malnourished—the highest number Gaza’s ever seen. More than 2,500 of those children are in severe danger, with dozens already in stabilisation centres.

The WHO’s message is clear: let the aid in, and let it in now. Before things get even worse.