In November 2023, the BMA released its position statement on the unfolding crisis in the region of Israel and Palestine. The BMA stands by this statement and the asks we made. Since then, the BMA has taken a number of actions to support the health rights of those in the region and advocate for the protections afforded to healthcare under international humanitarian law (IHL), including taking an emergency resolution to the World Medical Association, which was passed unanimously at its General Assembly meeting in October 2024.
The situation has continued to deteriorate. Tens of thousands have been killed and the conflict has expanded into Lebanon. The BMA is deeply troubled by the further destruction of Gazan and Lebanese medical facilities, the undermining of the rights and protections afforded to medical personnel in times of conflict, and the lack of necessary aid reaching Gaza. There have been a number of UN Special Rapporteur reviews outlining worrying causes of concern as well as the ICJ case which could indicate serious human rights abuses from belligerents in the conflict.
Given the attacks on both health rights and healthcare workers, clearly contrary to international humanitarian law, the BMA is outlining our further concerns and asks regarding the conflict. As always, the BMA’s focus is on ensuring the realisation of the highest standard of human rights for both clinicians and patients.
Attacks on medical personnel
Attacking medical personnel undertaking their professional duties is, clearly, prohibited under international humanitarian law. Yet, since the conflict reignited, hundreds have been killed and thousands more have faced attacks, some clearly being targeted in flagrant disregard of IHL. This is unacceptable and the BMA condemns it in the strongest possible terms.
Destruction of medical facilities
The medical infrastructure in Gaza has been devastated. Attacks and strikes on medical facilities have dismantled healthcare provision in large parts of the area. More than half of the hospitals in the region are no longer functional and several of those that are still operating are only doing so on a partial basis. This will result in more suffering for an already underserviced population in a conflict zone. Furthermore, a number of healthcare facilities in Lebanon are also no longer operational since the escalation of violence in the country in September 2024. This has included both hospitals and ambulances.
Denial of healthcare: medical supplies and medical evacuations
There remains severe shortages of medical supplies and humanitarian aid reaching Gaza due to the Israeli blockade. This is leading to limited food, clean water, fuel, and essential medicine, causing further harm to an already beleaguered population. Many aid organisations are reporting that famine in Gaza is imminent, with many of the population already malnourished. Infectious disease outbreaks, such as cholera, are more likely due to the disruption of water and inadequate sanitation infrastructure which will be compounded by the insufficient medical supplies reaching the region. As Gazans enter winter, the risk of hypothermia and other such conditions is heightened, especially given the number that are displaced. It is vital that necessary supplies to minimise the impact of the weather reaches those that need them.
Furthermore, despite the clear needs of the population, only a tiny proportion of necessary medical evacuations out of Gaza are taking place.
The BMA reiterates that denial of such medical care and blockading of essential supplies are violations of IHL. The impact on the wellbeing of the population of Gaza, as many aid and human rights organisations have articulated, has been catastrophic.
Destruction of infrastructure essential for maintaining population health
It is not solely the Israeli blockade that is causing dehydration, malnourishment, and disease outbreak in Gaza. Non-medical infrastructure and facilities, such as those used for water and sanitation, food production, and energy, have been targeted and attacked. The decimation of these systems disables Palestinians from being able to maintain basic levels of population health. Combined with the blockade, this has led to, and will continue to lead to, more sickness and death. The BMA is deeply troubled that the destruction of this crucial infrastructure will further exacerbate the unfolding public health crisis in Gaza.
The arbitrary detention and torture of Palestinian doctors
The BMA is appalled by the extensive reports of the arbitrary detention of Palestinian medical professionals by Israeli forces. This is illegal under international law. We are further concerned by the reports of mistreatment of these detainees, including torture and sexual abuse, and that mistreatment of medical personnel has led to their deaths in custody. We unequivocally condemn any such abuses of our colleagues.
Clinicians’ involvement in torture
The BMA is deeply disturbed by reports that doctors themselves have been involved in the torture of detainees. This represents an unspeakable violation of all standards of medical ethics and a violation of the WMA Declaration of Geneva. All such claims must be investigated independently and urgently.
BMA asks
As stated above, the BMA reiterates all of our asks from our position statement in November 2023 (recognising that these now extend to Lebanon also), including our calls for a ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and respect for international humanitarian law. The BMA further demands:
An independent investigation into:
- attacks on Gaza healthcare facilities, medical supplies and humanitarian aid, patients, ambulances, and medical personnel;
- the arbitrary detention of Palestinian medical personnel by Israel authorities and their treatment in such facilities;
- medical involvement in any mistreatment of Palestinian detainees by Israeli authorities.
From the BMA’s perspective, there is sufficient evidence from respected international organisations, including Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, the United Nations, and Médecins San Frontières, to demand a full investigation into claims of violations of IHL and who is responsible. The Israeli government should cooperate fully.
The siege of Gaza to end
It is clear that the aid getting into Gaza is insufficient. Israel must end its blockade to allow the necessary degree of medical and humanitarian aid to enter the region to support the population there, as well as supporting its distribution to ensuring it reaches the places it is needed most. Furthermore, the targeting of aid and infrastructure essential for population health and survival must halt.
Further medical evacuations
Israel and other governments must work with relevant authorities to ensure safe, sustained, timely, and organised medical evacuation for critically ill and injured patients, and their companions, that are well equipped to handle their complex and often life-threatening medical conditions. It is essential that Palestinians have access to necessary support and services for their recovery, and that protocols are followed to uphold and guarantee their right to return when they choose.