STATEMENT
79th World Health Assembly, 18 - 23 May 2026
Norwegian Ministry of Health and Care Services
Item 17.2 Health conditions in the occupied Palestinian territory, including Jerusalem.
Norway’s National Statement
Thank you chair.
Norway is deeply worried about the situation in Palestine.
The situation in the West Bank is critical, with a deteriorating financial situation, expansions of illegal settlements and a surge of settler violence.
The war in Gaza has led to tremendous destruction, suffering and death. And, unfortunately, the expansion of conflict in the region has significantly impeded progress on UNSC Resolution 2803 and the 20‑point plan for Gaza.
The civilian population continues to live under dire circumstances and on a bare minimum. The crisis in water, sanitation, and hygiene conditions is particularly critical.
The parties must respect the ceasefire. And Israel must unconditionally allow for the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid – at scale – into and throughout Gaza, and for unimpeded access for the UN and humanitarian organizations in accordance with international humanitarian law.
Since October 2023, we have been witnessing a rapidly collapsing health system, attacks on health facilities, and medical personnel. The destruction of health facilities is estimated to 1.39 billion USD.
We underline the extreme urgency of providing safe space and adequate medical supplies and healthcare.
Patients requiring treatment in East Jerusalem and Ramallah should be provided with access in and out of Gaza. Also, Patients in the West Bank should be granted safe and unhindered passings to health facilities.
Norway commends the tremendous efforts of WHO and other humanitarian actors, which is essential to alleviate suffering in Gaza.
I thank you.