The World Health Organisation (WHO) has called on all parties involved in conflicts to effectively protect and respect healthcare, ensuring the safe and continuous provision of medical services and guaranteeing access without violence, threats or fear.

The organisation confirmed that it has verified 821 attacks on the health sector worldwide since the beginning of this year, resulting in 1,121 deaths and 645 injuries among healthcare workers and patients across 16 countries and territories.

Christian Lindmeier, WHO spokesperson, said in a press briefing in Geneva to mark World Humanitarian Day that attacks targeting healthcare facilities, staff, and infrastructure have increased amid escalating, complex and protracted global conflicts, describing such acts as clear violations of international law.