Statement regarding the conflict in Israel and the Gaza Strip

The escalation in violence in Israel and the Gaza Strip has led to a serious humanitarian crisis. The principles of international law recognise the protection of civilians in war, the protection of healthcare facilities and healthcare personnel.

The Irish College of General Practitioners (ICGP) abhors violence in all forms, and our compassion is for all affected peoples. We support all medical communities that are attempting to care for them.

The ICGP expresses deep concern at this huge loss of life, and urges all sides in this conflict to respect international law; the College calls for a humanitarian corridor to be established to ensure medicines, food, water and fuel can be delivered to civilian populations.

In this conflict, hospitals and healthcare professionals, as well as vulnerable patients, have been targets of attack. The ICGP calls for the protection of healthcare facilities and personnel to ensure they can safely carry out their work in this time of crisis.