KARACHI: Healthcare professionals across Pakistan observed Gaza Solidarity Day, marking one year since the Israeli aggression on Gaza. Doctors and healthcare workers gathered outside their clinics and hospitals, holding Palestinian flags and banners to show solidarity with the people of Gaza, especially the brave healthcare workers who continue to serve under dire conditions.
The observance of this day was initiated by the President of the Pakistan Islamic Medical Association (PIMA), Prof. Dr. Atif Hafeez Siddiqui. In his statement, Prof. Siddiqui emphasized the significance of this gesture, describing it as a symbol of support for the people of Gaza and the dedicated healthcare staff who remain committed to their mission despite facing severe hardships.
He underscored the dire state of Gaza’s healthcare system, which has been systematically targeted, leaving over two million people in the Gaza Strip without access to basic health services. Prof. Siddiqui highlighted the plight of more than 50,000 pregnant women who are unable to access maternity care, and the critical situation of 25,000 patients and injured individuals in need of urgent treatment abroad. Among them, 12,500 cancer patients are at risk of losing their lives due to the lack of immediate care.
Additionally, the healthcare sector in Gaza has suffered the tragic loss of 986 healthcare workers, who have been martyred while serving in perilous conditions. Despite these immense challenges, doctors and paramedical staff in Gaza continue to provide essential medical care, often risking their own lives.
PIMA reiterated its call for an immediate and sustained ceasefire in Gaza to alleviate the suffering of its people and to prevent further destruction of the region.