PHANZ STATEMENT ON THE ONGOING VIOLENCE IN GAZA

The Public Health Association of New Zealand (PHANZ) strongly condemns ongoing military violence in Gaza and the killing of civilians, including thousands of children and women. We condemn the indiscriminate bombing, targeted attacks on hospitals, healthcare workers, and vital infrastructure, which continue to create a catastrophic humanitarian and public health crisis.

Following Israel’s recent renewed military offensive in Gaza that broke a 2-month ceasefire, latest reports from Gaza’s health ministry state that the death toll in the Palestinian Territory since the 18-month conflict began has now reached 50,000, with more than 113,000 injured.

In addition to the horrific loss of life and widespread injuries, the deliberate destruction of homes, water systems, food supply chains, and medical facilities constitutes a serious violation of human rights and international law. The impact of these attacks is not only immediate but will have long-term consequences for the physical and mental well-being of Palestinians for generations to come.

As a public health organisation committed to equity, justice, and the protection of the right to health, PHANZ calls for an urgent, peaceful, and sustained resolution to this conflict. We stress the need for the immediate protection of civilians, healthcare workers, and vital infrastructure, and for unimpeded humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza. This must include access to the basic tenets of public health: clean water, food, shelter, sanitation, medicine, and healthcare.

The Public Health Association of New Zealand represents professionals, organisations, and communities committed to advancing health equity, human rights, and systems that support wellbeing for all.