An American Medical Delegation Holds a Press Conference at the Conclusion of Their Visit to Gaza Strip

An American medical delegation consisting of 12 professionals in the fields of heath, peace building, and human rights held a press conference in Gaza at the conclusion of their one-week visit to Gaza. Gaza Community Mental Health Progarmme in cooperation with Union for Health Work Committee hosted the delegation.  During their visit, the delegation implemented surgery operations and medical examination for hundreds of patients in the fields of cardiology, neurology, mental health, and maxillofacial surgery. Moreover, members of the delegation visited the homes of citizens and places of destruction resulting from the last war on Gaza as well as several community, health, academic, and human rights organizations. In addition, the delegation was briefed about the suffering of citizens due to the ongoing siege imposed on Gaza. Members of the delegation held several trainings and supervision for professionals.

At the end of their visit, GCMHP organized a press conference in order to allow the delegation to talk about their impressions and experiences of the living conditions of Palestinians in Gaza. At the beginning of the press conference Husam El-Nounou expressed his deep thanks and gratitude for the delegation on behalf of the Palestinian people for their sincere efforts conducted in providing medical and psychological services. In turn, Ms. Gerri Haynes, Coordinator of the delegation, talked about the health conditions particularly, the mental health of the Palestinian people in Gaza Strip. Ms. Haynes complemented the steadfastness of the Palestinians and their flexibility in coping with the difficult conditions of life in Gaza. She expressed her hopes for continuing efforts to organize visits by other medical delegations, wishing to provide medical services in Gaza.

Furthermore, Dr. David Hall presented a press release issued by the delegation members summarizing the results of their work and experiences about their visit. In the release, Dr. David thanked GCMHP professionals, Al-Awda Hospital and healthcare members and academics, who have contributed to the success of their mission to Gaza.

Moreover, Dr. David highlighted in the statement the magnitude of the pain and suffering that the delegation witnessed during their visit, praising the courage and resiliency of the Palestinian intellectuals and their will and patience in overcoming the extreme circumstances that they pass through. Then, Dr. David expressed their responsibilities and commitment of the transferring what they have witnessed during their visit to Gaza to the American people. He also said that they will appeal to the decision-makers in their governments to come to Gaza and to speak directly with people with whom they met.

At the end, Dr. David reiterated their conviction that an open Gaza can be a partner for peace worldwide. This can be achieved by periodic meetings between world leaders and leaders in Gaza, which will open the possibilities for long-term security for the Palestinians and Israelis alike.

In conclusion, the delegation committed to taking to the government of the United States what they have learned here and appeal to the world community to insist on lifting the siege immediately. 

The closure and collective punishment of the people of Gaza must end – Gaza must be free.