Medical workers in Indonesia have come together to call for an immediate end to attacks on hospitals and healthcare staff by Israeli forces in Gaza. The Indonesian Hospital, located in the war-torn Palestinian enclave, has been forced to cease operations, leading to concerns about the lack of medical services available to the people of Gaza. Indonesian medics held a communal prayer event in Jakarta, attended by representatives from various medical associations, to raise awareness about the dire situation in Gaza and push for a ceasefire.
The event, organized by the Medical Emergency Rescue Committee (MER-C), aimed to draw attention to the “genocide” taking place in Gaza and the violations of international law through attacks on hospitals and healthcare workers. According to the Indonesian Medical Association and MER-C, a total of 22 hospitals and 49 health centers in Gaza have been forced to stop operating due to Israeli aggression. They called on the Indonesian government to exert diplomatic pressure on Israel to end its attacks.
The Indonesian Hospital, which was funded by MER-C in 2011, has been severely impacted by the ongoing conflict. Its director, Atef al-Kahlout, stated that the hospital can no longer provide services or offer beds to patients. Journalist Hussam Shabbat, reporting from the Indonesian Hospital, described the area as living through “15 minutes of hell” due to intense Israeli bombings. Dr. Zecky Eko Triwahyudi, an orthopedics and traumatology doctor, expressed his support for the people of Gaza and emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
The Indonesian government, while facing a challenging diplomatic situation regarding the war, has been actively supporting Palestine. President Joko Widodo urged US President Joe Biden to take stronger action to end the “atrocities” in Gaza and facilitate a ceasefire. Indonesia, as the world’s most populous Muslim country, has witnessed large demonstrations in solidarity with Palestinians and calls for boycotting businesses associated with Israel. However, Indonesia’s ability to protect the Indonesian Hospital is limited, and it relies on international support to ensure the safety of its staff and patients.
The cessation of operations at the Indonesian Hospital, coupled with the closure of al-Shifa Hospital, has left Palestinians in a dire medical situation. Dr. Yogi Prabowo expressed concerns about the fatal consequences of this situation, as the Indonesian Hospital was the last remaining medical facility providing essential care in northern Gaza. Urgent action is needed to address the humanitarian crisis and protect the lives of innocent civilians.
In conclusion, Indonesian medics have united to demand an immediate end to attacks on hospitals and healthcare workers by Israeli forces in Gaza. The closure of the Indonesian Hospital and the paralyzation of medical services in Gaza have raised concerns about the well-being of Palestinians. The Indonesian government, while facing diplomatic challenges, has called for international pressure on Israel and has sought stronger humanitarian responses. Urgent action is needed to address the dire medical situation in Gaza and protect innocent lives.
