Nobel Laureate and renowned activist Malala Yousafzai has strongly condemned the recent bombing of Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza, expressing her horror at the incident.
In response, she has pledged $300,000 in aid for Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict.
In a heartfelt message posted on her social media platform, Malala wrote, "I'm horrified to see the bombing of Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza and unequivocally condemn it. I urge the Israeli government to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza and reiterate the call for a ceasefire. I am directing $300K to three charities helping Palestinian people under attack."
I’m horrified to see the bombing of al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza and unequivocally condemn it. I urge the Israeli government to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza and reiterate the call for a ceasefire. I am directing $300K to three charities helping Palestinian people under attack. pic.twitter.com/JiIPfnTUvY
— Malala Yousafzai (@Malala) October 17, 2023
Accompanying her statement, Malala released a video message in which she stressed the need for peace, saying, "I am here to add my voice to those from Palestine, Israel, and around the world, crying out for peace. Collective punishment is not the answer.
Half of Gaza’s population is under 18 years old; they should not be forced to live their entire lives under bombing and unjust occupation."
The activist then announced her financial commitment, saying, "I am directing $300,000 to charities working to help Palestinian children and people in danger. I ask everyone who is watching this video to donate to organizations providing humanitarian aid. Together, we must make clear to our leaders that we expect them to work towards an immediate ceasefire and an enduring peace."
This powerful message comes following a devastating attack on Al-Ahli al-Arabi Hospital, which, according to reports, has resulted in the deaths of as many as 500 people.
Israel has denied responsibility for the attack, attributing it to a failed rocket launch by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group, a claim that the group has refuted.
The incident has generated considerable controversy, with UN Chief also expressing horror at the attack. Furthermore, U.S. President Joe Biden, on an emergency diplomatic mission in Israel, has supported Israel's assertion that the explosion was caused by militants and not by Israeli forces.
In response to the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the Israeli military has announced that humanitarian aid will be made available in a designated "humanitarian zone" in Al-Mawasi, situated on the southern coast of the Gaza Strip near the Egyptian border. However, specifics regarding how this aid will be delivered remain unclear.