PSI's Steering Committee, at its annual meeting on 3 and 4 June, unanimously adopted a resolution calling for immediate and sustained peace in Gaza and an end to targeting health care and public service workers. It also called for an end to the Israeli blockade of aid supplies, opposed any forced displacement of Palestinian people and the release of all hostages. 

Since October 2023, more than 1,500 health workers have lost their lives - among them 225 PSI members

Since October 2023, more than 1,500 health workers have lost their lives while carrying out their vital duties. Among them are 225 members of PSI's affiliate, the General Union of Health Services Workers in Gaza, including union leaders Samira Moussa and Walid El Korm and seven members of the union's ambulance workers coordinating committee. 

Public service unions worldwide emphasize that attacks on healthcare workers constitute a grave violation of international humanitarian law. These essential workers, who dedicate their lives to saving others, must be protected, not targeted.

Dr. Salama Abou Zayter, President of the General Union of Healthcare Workers in Gaza, recently told PSI how health staff are struggling with destroyed medical facilities, severe shortages of essential supplies, and constant security threats. PSI recently brought the voice of Dr Zayter and his colleagues to the Executive Board of the WHO to call for an end to attacks against health workers. 

Public service workers and their unions across the globe demand: 

• Immediate protection for all healthcare workers in conflict zones 

• Unhindered access for medical supplies and humanitarian aid 

• Investigation of attacks on medical personnel and facilities 

• Concrete steps toward a lasting peace that ensures the safety of all civilians 

Over a dozen PSI member unions from across the world have supported our Gaza Solidarity Fund, which is established to provide medium-term humanitarian relief when the situation allows and for a longer-term reconstruction of union infrastructure in the region.