Toronto, ON- A UOSSM supported medical facility in Hama was put out of service today after it was hit by a rocket. The UOSSM Kafr Nabudah Medical Facility was attacked at approximately 1:30 p.m. Damascus time, causing damage to the building and putting it out of service. There was one minor injury to a staff member.
The building, foundation, generator, doors, windows and walls were all damaged, according to the Hama Health Directorate.
In the past four months, the medical facility provided services to over 30,000 people, follow up treatment to over 5,000 patients a month, and emergency care to over 6,000 families. Recently, the center was also providing treatment for leishmaniasis
There has been a sharp increase in medical facility attacks in the past month, destroying facilities and leaving large populations without access to medical care. In a recent study conducted by UOSSM of
107 hospitals
examined in Aleppo, Idlib, Latakia, Hama, Daraa, Quneitra, and Homs, all were hit at least once by direct or indirect airstrikes. Some hospitals were struck as many as 25 times.
"Just 2 days ago a surgeon, Dr. Ali Darwish, was killed by a gas attack WHILE operating on a patient. The patient died as well. It's heart breaking because these workers choose their patients lives over their own. This level of targeted violence against hospitals and medical workers is unprecedented in history. If the international community wants to ignore the blatant and methodical war crimes and gross violations of International Humanitarian Law, that is their choice. Leaders should note that these are laws, not suggestions. They are mandated to act, not just when it is easy or politically convenient. The very minimum they can do is help fund the fortification of hospitals so health workers can continue to save lives. ”- Said Dr. Anas Al Kassem, Chairman of UOSSM Canada
