Gaza, 8 November 2022 – Gaza’s first emergency operation centre (EOC), established by WHO under the leadership of the Gaza Ministry of Health, was inaugurated today. The inauguration was attended by Dr Yousef Abu-Al Rish, Gaza’s Deputy Minister of Health and Dr Rik Peeperkorn, WHO Representative in the occupied Palestinian territory, along with health experts from Gaza.

The EOC will provide an essential platform for strengthening multisectoral coordination and planning by experts and key stakeholders for public health emergencies, in line with the 2005 International Health Regulations (IHR).

“The inauguration of the EOC is a huge step in enhancing Gaza’s preparedness and response capacity against public health risks and emergencies. It will substantially improve data-sharing and analysis to drive evidence-based decision-making and inform mitigation and response activities,” said Dr Abu-Al Rish.

>The COVID-19 pandemic, recurrent escalations in conflict and other health emergencies in Gaza underscore the need for continued investment in improving emergency preparedness and response capacities. The establishment of the EOC is part of WHO’s ongoing support to the Gaza Ministry of Health in building and expanding responsive and resilient public health systems and infrastructure.

“The newly established EOC is a clear example of WHO’s efforts to translate commitment into action. It will play a vital role in alleviating the pressure on the health system during future public health crises by ensuring effective planning, preparation and response, which in turn will save time, scarce resources and lives,” said Dr Peeperkorn.

WHO support for the establishment of the EOC amounts to US$ 380,000, thanks to contributions from Canada, Germany, Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and Kuwait. It includes technical support and the provision of equipment and furniture.