WHO warns against attacks on health centers in Libya

By Erdogan Cagatay Zontur

ANKARA

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday warned against “increasing number of attacks” on health facilities and workers in Libya.

In 41 attacks targeting healthcare facilities since 2018, six workers have been killed and 25 others injured, WHO said in a written statement.

“WHO once again demands that all parties in the conflict respect the safety of health workers, health facilities and medical supplies, and the overall sanctity of health care,” said Jaffar Hussain, WHO representative and head of the mission in Libya.

He described the attacks "a major violation of International Humanitarian Law and a tragic disregard of our common humanity."

Hussein said that the attacks put many more lives in danger in Libya and deprive people of their right to health services.

WHO said nearly 75% of health facilities are closed or only partially functioning due to the ongoing political crisis.