WHO chief’s Close Call: Airstrike near Miss in Yemen
The head of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, had a harrowing near-death experience on Thursday. While in Sana’a, Yemen’s capital, preparing to board a flight, he found himself in the immediate vicinity of an Israeli airstrike targeting the airport.
In an interview with BBC Radio,Dr. Ghebreyesus described the terrifying event. “The sound was so loud… to the point of being deafening,” he recounted. “I still suffer from ringing in my ears even though more than 24 hours have passed. I don’t know if it affected my ears.” He further detailed the attack’s proximity, stating, “The departure hall next to us was bombed, then the control tower. If the missile had deviated a little, it could have fallen on our heads.”
The incident underscores the precarious security situation in Yemen, a country embroiled in a protracted conflict. Dr. Ghebreyesus’s visit was part of a UN mission aimed at securing the release of detained UN personnel and assessing the dire humanitarian situation. His narrow escape highlights the significant risks faced by aid workers and civilians alike in the war-torn nation.
Dr. Ghebreyesus emphasized the importance of adhering to international law, notably concerning the protection of civilian infrastructure. he stressed, “It does not matter if you are there or not…This is a civilian facility and must be protected, in accordance with international law.”
The attack raises serious concerns about the safety of humanitarian operations in conflict zones. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of war on civilians and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Yemen. The international community is increasingly called upon to ensure the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers in active war zones, mirroring similar concerns raised in other global conflicts.
The ongoing conflict in Yemen has created a humanitarian crisis of immense proportions, with millions facing food insecurity, displacement, and lack of access to essential healthcare. The situation mirrors challenges faced in other global hotspots, underscoring the need for increased international cooperation and humanitarian aid.
Near-Miss Airstrike Shakes WHO Chief in Yemen: An Interview with Dr. Lina al-Amin
Senior editor (SE): Welcome back to World Today News. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Lina al-amin, a leading humanitarian aid researcher with a specific focus on the Yemen crisis. dr. al-Amin, thank you for being with us.
Dr. Lina al-Amin (LA): Thank you for having me.
SE: We’re discussing the recent harrowing experience of Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the head of the World Health Organization, who narrowly escaped an airstrike in Sana’a, Yemen. This incident raises serious concerns about the safety of aid workers operating in the region.What are your thoughts?
LA: This incident highlights the incredibly dangerous reality faced by aid workers in Yemen. The conflict there is incredibly complex and brutal,with civilian infrastructure frequently caught in the crossfire. This attack on Sana’a Airport underscores the blatant disregard for international law and the urgent need for a ceasefire.
SE: Dr. Ghebreyesus himself stressed the importance of protecting civilian infrastructure. How can the international community hold parties involved in the conflict accountable for these types of attacks?
LA: This is a complex issue. While international condemnation is important, measurable actions are needed. Establishing independent investigations into attacks on civilians and holding perpetrators accountable through sanctions or legal action is crucial.moreover, ensuring ongoing dialogue and putting pressure on all sides to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law is essential.
SE: Beyond protecting aid workers, what are the other major challenges facing humanitarian organizations in Yemen?
LA: The humanitarian situation in Yemen is dire. Millions are facing famine,lack access to clean water,and have been displaced from their homes. Funding for aid agencies is constantly under strain, and access to conflict zones is often restricted. We need a concerted global effort to increase funding, guarantee safe passage for aid workers, and work towards a enduring peace agreement.
SE : Dr.al-Amin,thank you for providing your invaluable insights on this pressing issue.
LA: It was my pleasure.
