The Australian Islamic Medical Association (AIMA) unequivocally condemns the ongoing blockade of humanitarian and medical relief agencies into Gaza, which is rapidly worsening an already devastating health and humanitarian crisis.

This blockade has directly impacted internationally respected humanitarian and medical organisations, including Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), UN agencies, and other frontline relief partners delivering emergency medical care.

Restricting or preventing the entry and operation of these organisations effectively amounts to a ban on doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers providing essential and life-saving medical support to civilians.

The obstruction of humanitarian and medical assistance violates the principles of medical neutrality and international humanitarian law.

Denying civilians access to healthcare, food, and water is morally indefensible and has contributed to conditions described by many international bodies as consistent with genocide.

AIMA calls on the Israeli Government to immediately lift the ban on humanitarian assistance, ensure safe and unimpeded access for medical and relief agencies, and uphold its obligations under international law.

We urge the Australian Government and the international community to intensify diplomatic efforts to protect healthcare workers and secure sustained humanitarian access.

Dr Yousuf H Ahmad                                                                                    

Chair, Board of Directors

Australian Islamic Medical Association (AIMA)