In a tragic turn of events amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Dima Alhaj, a 29-year-old staff member of the World Health Organisation (WHO), lost her life along with her husband, their six-month-old baby boy, and her two brothers.
The WHO officially confirmed this devastating news in a press statement on Tuesday night.
Alhaj, who worked as a patient administrator at the Limb Reconstruction Centre, an integral part of the WHO Trauma and Emergency Team, was residing in her parents’ house in southern Gaza after evacuating from Gaza City.
The house was bombed on Tuesday, resulting in the untimely demise of Alhaj, her family members, and over 50 others who were seeking shelter in the same residence, as reported by the WHO.
Dima Alhaj, a graduate in Environmental and Earth Sciences from the Islamic University of Gaza, continued her studies and work on environmental issues and health.
She pursued her master’s degree at Glasgow University, Scotland, UK, as part of the Erasmus exchange program from 2018-2019.
Dr. Rik Peeperkorn, the WHO representative in the occupied Palestinian territory, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Alhaj as a wonderful person with a radiant smile, positive attitude, and a true team player.
Her role was considered crucial, and she had recently been entrusted with additional responsibilities to support the Gaza suboffice and team.
Dr. Peeperkorn emphasized the senselessness of the conflict, pointing to the tragic deaths of civilians in various settings, including homes, workplaces, schools, and hospitals.
The WHO appealed to those with the power to end the conflict, urging a cessation of hostilities.
The organization extended its condolences to Dima Alhaj’s family, colleagues, and friends, mourning the profound loss of a dedicated and valued team member.