The WHO condemns Israeli attacks on Gaza's facilities, highlighting the destruction of health infrastructure, detention of staff, and worsening humanitarian crisis amid ongoing military operations and displacement of civilians.
Proton beam therapy is a precise form of cancer treatment that reduces side effects by focusing radiation on the cancer, but it is not currently available in Canada. Canadian patients in need of proton therapy must travel abroad, facing barriers to care. Efforts are being made to establish proton therapy facilities in Canada, with progress in Québec and Ontario. Access to proton therapy would benefit patients and allow Canadian researchers to collaborate globally in scientific studies.
US President Joe Biden has called for the protection of Gaza's largest hospital, Al-Shifa, as Israeli tanks surround the facility, trapping hundreds of patients and staff inside. Biden expressed hope for "less intrusive action" by Israel and mentioned ongoing negotiations for a pause in hostilities and the release of prisoners. The hospital has been repeatedly targeted by Israeli bombing and snipers, resulting in mounting casualties among patients, including newborn babies. Israel claims that Hamas operates a command center under the hospital, which both the armed group and hospital officials deny. Other hospitals in Gaza have also suspended operations due to Israeli bombardment and dwindling supplies.
Residents in Medical Lake, Washington, have been ordered to evacuate as a growing wildfire, known as the Gray Fire, has burned through 500 acres. Two nearby medical facilities, Eastern State Hospital and Lakeland Village Residential Habilitation Center, are sheltering in place. Authorities have activated aircraft to respond to the fire, and no casualties have been reported so far.