Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza

Thursday 28 November 2024 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The Anglican Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza remains operational despite difficulties, providing basic care.
  • Only 12 of Gaza's 36 hospitals are currently operational.
  • The hospital treats over 1,000 emergency patients daily and uses non-medical spaces as wards.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 James Asser Lab West Ham and Beckton
NHS Religion & Faith
Context

The MP raised concerns about the state of hospitals in Gaza following a report that only 12 out of 36 are operational, offering mainly basic care. The Anglican-run Al-Ahli hospital has been highlighted for its continued operation despite challenges.

Question

What assessment has the Church made of the effectiveness of the Anglican Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza?

Answer from Marsha de Cordova

Only 12 of Gaza's 36 hospitals are still operational, offering mainly basic care. The Anglican-run Al-Ahli hospital has remained operational despite facing huge difficulties, thanks to the dedication of its hard-working staff and the leadership of its director, Suhaila Tarazi. Last week, it was announced that the hospital is to receive £3.4 million of support from the UN Development Programme as well as the Palestinian American Medical Association.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The assessment requested by the MP on the effectiveness of the hospital was not directly addressed; instead, details about operational challenges and funding were provided.

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Q2 James Asser Lab West Ham and Beckton
NHS Foreign Affairs
Context

Following the initial question, concerns were raised about the progress made towards a ceasefire in Lebanon but noted that this does not extend to Gaza. Without such an agreement, allocated funds for medical aid cannot be used effectively.

Question

Given the humanitarian crisis and need for medical aid in Gaza, especially as winter approaches, will the lack of a ceasefire lead to further suffering and deaths?

Answer from Marsha de Cordova

We welcome the ceasefire arrangements between Israel and Lebanon but need a ceasefire in Gaza. The community there is reliant on the Anglican Al-Ahli hospital for healthcare. It sees more than 1,000 emergency patients daily and has had to use non-medical spaces as wards due to destruction by Israeli forces.

Partly answered

Not addressed: While acknowledging the need for a ceasefire, no specific commitment was made regarding humanitarian aid or addressing the exact question about exacerbation of suffering without a ceasefire.

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