WMA Condemns Missile Strike on Israeli Hospital and Calls for Protection of Healthcare Facilities

The World Medical Association strongly condemns the deliberate missile strike on the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheva, Israel, which caused significant structural damage and led to the suspension of most hospital services. Soroka is one of the country’s largest medical centers, a Level-1 trauma hospital serving over one million people in southern Israel, including many vulnerable communities.

Under international humanitarian law, healthcare facilities are protected spaces that must never be targeted; such attacks constitute grave breaches of the Geneva Convention.

Dr Ashok Philip, President of the World Medical Association, stated: “Any strike on a hospital violates international law. We stand in solidarity with our colleagues at Soroka Medical Center and strongly condemn this attack.”

WMA reiterates that medical neutrality is a fundamental principle of humanitarian protection. Attacks on health infrastructure not only breach legal and ethical standards—they deprive civilians of life-saving care and compromise the integrity of health systems. The international medical community must reaffirm its commitment to the neutrality and safety of healthcare professionals in all conflict settings.

The World Medical Association continues to advocate for the respect of the neutrality of healthcare workers, safe and unimpeded access to medical care and humanitarian aid, and the protection of all healthcare infrastructures including hospitals, clinics, and ambulances.

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