Mayor of Athens responds to criticism from Israeli ambassador regarding the chaos in Gaza.
In the war-torn region of Gaza, the humanitarian situation has deteriorated to an unprecedented level, affecting the lives of over two million Palestinians, particularly children, who are struggling to survive.
Israel has accused Hamas of obstructing aid delivery and offering "humanitarian pauses" and safe corridors, but continued attacks on aid lines have contradicted these claims. Tragically, two civilians lost their lives in an attack on food queues in Beit Lahia, and seven more were killed in Gaza City's Shejaiya neighborhood by two successive airstrikes in a civilian area. In Rafah, Israeli troops shot dead two civilians and wounded over 20 while they were waiting in line for aid.
The ongoing conflict, which began in October 2023, has resulted in the death of over 59,000 Palestinians and injured more than 143,000, according to Gaza's Ministry of Health and humanitarian organizations. The fighting has caused rampant displacement, with less than 12% of the territory considered safe.
Basic necessities such as sufficient water, food, and medical care are largely unavailable. Over 500,000 people in Gaza face famine-like conditions, risking death from starvation, with long-term irreversible effects especially on young children. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and essential services are near collapse. Acute malnutrition among children is widespread; more than 20,000 children have been treated for acute malnutrition since April 2025, and at least 16 children under five have died from hunger-related causes in mid-2025 alone.
Gaza faces a "public health collapse" without urgent delivery of medicines and nutrition, according to physicians. The Gaza Health Ministry reported five new deaths from starvation, including two children, bringing the total famine-related deaths to 180, of whom 93 are minors, since the Israeli siege began in October 2023. Medical staff have also confirmed three new deaths from Guillain-Barre syndrome in Gaza, a neurological illness linked to malnutrition, stress, and vitamin deficiency.
Humanitarian agencies like the UN World Food Programme and the International Rescue Committee are delivering aid, including food and medical assistance. However, the volatility and destruction hinder sustained relief. Israeli military restrictions and ongoing violence near aid sites further hinder safe access. Aid groups say Gaza needs 600 trucks daily to meet basic survival needs - the prewar average. Despite Israeli claims of facilitating over 1,200 trucks carrying 23,000 tons of aid last week, UN officials report many shipments remain stranded, looted, or unable to reach distribution centers.
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas sharply criticized Israel for the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza, accusing Israel of killing civilians and children in food lines. Doukas delivered a rebuke to Israel's ambassador over antisemitic graffiti in Athens. Doukas underlined Athens' commitment to democratic values, free speech, and respect for visitors.
In an effort to alleviate the crisis, a ceasefire and increased humanitarian access are called for urgently to prevent further loss of life and enable safe aid delivery. Bodies at Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City were wrapped in household blankets due to a shortage of traditional white burial shrouds, underscoring the desperate need for immediate intervention.
[1] UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) [2] Gaza's Ministry of Health [3] World Health Organization (WHO) [4] International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
- The deteriorating health conditions in Gaza necessitate urgent intervention from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Gaza's Ministry of Health, and the World Health Organization (WHO).
- The ongoing conflict has led to a rise in chronic diseases, cancers, respiratory conditions, digestive health issues, and eye-health problems.
- Hospitals in Gaza are grappling with a surge in patients suffering from hearing losses, skin conditions, autoimmune disorders, and neurological disorders.
- The humanitarian crisis has also affected the mental health of Gaza's residents, with an increase in cases of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Men's health and women's health have been negatively impacted, with rising rates of reproductive health issues, sexual health concerns, and maternal mortality.
- In an attempt to improve family health, there is a dire need for father's involvement in parenting and education about weight management and cardiovascular health.
- The stress of the conflict has exacerbated psoriasis and other skin conditions among the population.
- Therapies and treatments for medical conditions, such as medicare, CBD oil, and traditional medicine, must be regularly provided to ensure proper care for those in need.
- Nutrition plays a crucial role in the prevention and management of diseases, with an emphasis on providing a balanced diet to children and pregnant women.
- As people age, they are more susceptible to a wide range of health conditions, necessitating specific care and attention from healthcare providers.
- The war-torn region of Gaza has witnessed a sharp increase in the number of accidents, including car accidents and injuries from debris during airstrikes, exacerbating the health crisis.
- On-going political tensions and conflicts have further aggravated the dire situation, hindering the delivery of essential goods and services.
- General news outlets and media organizations must report on the deteriorating health situation in Gaza, raising global awareness and advocating for increased humanitarian aid.
- Amid the chaos, crime and justice systems have become murky, leaving victims without recourse or support for seeking justice.
- The international community must come together to address the health and wellness needs of Gazans, including investing in workplace-wellness programs, fitness and exercise programs, and promoting health education.
- In the face of these challenges, organizations like the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the UN World Food Programme continue to deliver food, medical assistance, and supplies to help alleviate the suffering of Gazans.
- Efforts to improve healthcare and access to medical resources should extend beyond the realm of traditional medicine, considering alternative treatments like acupuncture and herbal remedies.
- The urgent need for aid extends beyond health and medicine, encompassing war-torn communities' overall health and wellness, including their emotional, physical, and social well-being.
