In a significant humanitarian development, Israel and Hamas have agreed to a three-day pause in hostilities to facilitate a critical polio vaccination campaign in Gaza. The ceasefire, beginning Sunday, will allow for the vaccination of 640,000 children in the war-torn region.
The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that the pauses will be zoned by region: central Gaza, southern Gaza, and northern Gaza, with each area receiving a three-day pause, potentially extended by an additional day if needed. This strategic break aims to ensure sufficient coverage to stop the outbreak and prevent further international spread of the virus.
The campaign follows a recent report of a polio case, the first in Gaza in 25 years. WHO’s senior official for the Palestinian territories, Rik Peeperkorn, emphasized the importance of achieving at least 90 percent coverage to control the outbreak.
Hamas official Basem Naim expressed readiness to collaborate with international organizations to secure the vaccination effort, while Israel’s humanitarian unit (COGAT) will coordinate the campaign to ensure safe access to medical centers.
Deputy US ambassador to the UN, Robert Wood, stressed the importance of maintaining calm during the campaign and avoiding further evacuation orders. The latest conflict, ignited on October 7, has resulted in substantial casualties and displacement, severely impacting Gaza’s humanitarian situation.
The WHO and UN are working to ensure the success of this vital health initiative amid ongoing challenges.
