Here’s a breakdown of the key points from the provided text:
challenges Faced by MSF in Gaza:
Access Restrictions and Delays: Israeli authorities imposed strict coordination requirements for MSF to access “red zones” and hospitals. This involved providing detailed travel plans, being assigned specific roads, and enduring lengthy waits at checkpoints, ofen for hours.
Unsafe Waiting Conditions: These delays occurred in busy areas were bombing was ongoing, putting MSF staff at risk. Extended Shifts: The inability to enter and exit facilities properly forced staff to work extended shifts (48-72 hours) rather of their usual 24-hour rotations. Unwarned Bombing: Bombings occurred without warning, posing a direct threat to MSF clinics and staff. An example is given of a bomb dropped in front of an MSF clinic in Gaza City,where staff miraculously survived and then immediatly went out to save lives.
“Concentration Zones”: Over 85% of Gaza is designated as a “red zone,” forcing the population into smaller areas referred to as “concentration zones” by Israeli authorities.The author expresses deep concern about the potential implications of this for the entire population.
Increased Violence During Ceasefire Talks: The author observed an increase in bombings and worsening treatment of civilians whenever ceasefire talks were underway. This included increased tank activity,destruction of buildings,and shootings at distribution sites,even those run by Israeli authorities.Impact on MSF Staff and Morale:
Loss of Hope: The lack of international response and governmental action leads to a loss of hope for MSF staff.
Heartbreak and Broken Spirits: the inability to see a longer-term solution and the ongoing suffering are heartbreaking and eventually break the spirit of the staff. Depression Among Palestinian Staff: Palestinian staff in Gaza are becoming increasingly depressed due to the perceived inaction of the world in helping them.
Difficulty Continuing Work: The author expresses uncertainty about their ability to continue their job and help people in gaza due to the increasingly unsafe situation.Call to Action:
Public Outcry: The author urges the public to make their voices heard in response to the suffering, particularly the starvation of children, to pressure politicians to act.
Duty of Powers: The decision to act lies with those who control weapons and funding.
Urgency: It is indeed urgent to speak up and do everything possible to prevent further deaths of innocent people.
Author’s Background:
Claire Manera: An australian emergency co-ordinator for Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) with 20 years of experience in conflict zones, most recently in Gaza.
