WHO Reaches Agreement with Israel for Vital Humanitarian Pauses in Gaza
The World Health Organization (WHO) has brokered an agreement with Israel to implement temporary ceasefires in Gaza, allowing for crucial polio vaccinations. These “humanitarian pauses,” each lasting three days in different regions of the conflict-stricken area, aim to protect hundreds of thousands of children after Gaza reported its first polio case in 25 years.
Vaccination Campaign to Target 640,000 Children Amid Conflict
Starting Sunday in central Gaza, the WHO-led vaccination campaign will move to southern and northern Gaza in subsequent phases, with each pause lasting eight to nine hours daily. Over 2,000 health workers, including UN agencies and the Gaza Health Ministry, will participate in the effort, aiming to vaccinate 640,000 children under 10 years old. The campaign has been closely coordinated with Israeli authorities, ensuring maximum coverage in the limited time available.
