UN Secretary-General Deplores Israeli Airstrike on Gaza’s Al-Ahli Arab Baptist Hospital

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has voiced grave concern following an Israeli airstrike on the Al-Ahli Arab Baptist Hospital in Gaza, calling the attack a clear breach of international humanitarian norms and a further blow to the region’s devastated healthcare infrastructure.

In a statement released by the UN spokesperson on Tuesday, Guterres stated he was “deeply alarmed” by the strike, which targeted one of Gaza’s few remaining operational hospitals, underscoring the urgency of protecting civilians and medical personnel amid the ongoing conflict.

“International humanitarian law strictly mandates the protection of the wounded, healthcare workers, and medical facilities, especially during armed conflicts,” the UN spokesperson stressed.

Hospital Emergency Wing Disabled Amid Crisis

The April 13 missile strike, reportedly launched by Israeli forces, severely damaged the hospital’s emergency department, rendering it non-functional. Local health officials confirmed that patients had been evacuated shortly before the strike following a warning call from a man who claimed affiliation with Israeli security.

Israeli authorities later justified the airstrike by alleging that militants from Hamas were operating within the hospital premises—a claim Palestinian medics have rejected, highlighting instead the critical role the hospital plays in treating civilians injured in ongoing hostilities.

Gaza’s Medical Infrastructure Near Collapse

The United Nations condemned the bombing as a significant escalation against already strained medical resources in Gaza. According to the UN, the attack compounds a worsening humanitarian situation, particularly as medical supplies, food, and water continue to dwindle due to a blockade that has been in effect since March 2.

“This assault marks a severe setback for a healthcare system already on the brink of collapse,” the statement added, noting that no new humanitarian aid has entered Gaza.

International Community Urged to Take Action

The UN chief reiterated the urgent need for all sides to respect international legal obligations and facilitate unimpeded humanitarian access. He also called on the global community to take meaningful action to protect civilians, medical workers, and essential infrastructure in conflict zones.

As diplomatic efforts continue to stall, Guterres emphasized that protecting innocent lives must remain the top priority and that attacks on hospitals and humanitarian facilities must cease immediately.