ANMF Statement on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza

The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) stands in solidarity with healthcare workers, aid agencies, and civilians facing an escalating humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

Israeli authorities continue to block the entry of humanitarian aid, threatening mass starvation and denying access to vital medical care. The entire population of Gaza—2.1 million people—is experiencing severe and prolonged food shortages. Nearly half a million are in a catastrophic state of hunger, acute malnutrition, illness, and death. According to the World Health Organization, this is one of the worst hunger crises in the world today, unfolding in real time.

More than two million people have been forcibly displaced. Tens of thousands—including medics, aid workers, and civilians—have been killed. Gaza’s healthcare system has been decimated, leaving health professionals unable to provide lifesaving care under unimaginable conditions.

The ANMF condemns the deliberate targeting of healthcare workers and facilities. Nurses, midwives, doctors, and first responders have been killed while fulfilling their duty of care. This is a gross violation of international humanitarian law. The right to health is universal and must be protected under all circumstances, including during armed conflict.

The ANMF further condemns the ongoing blockade and restrictions on food, water, fuel, and medical supplies—measures that amount to collective punishment and risk constituting war crimes. International humanitarian law clearly prohibits collective punishment and the use of starvation as a method of warfare. These actions must end immediately.

Our members have made their position clear: as nurses and midwives, our ethical obligation is to advocate for life, health, dignity, and human rights. Many have expressed deep concern at the scale of violence and civilian suffering. As a profession dedicated to care, we must not look away.

The ANMF calls on the Australian Government to urgently:

• Condemn the blockade and push for immediate, unrestricted humanitarian access to Gaza.
• Join international calls for an immediate and lasting ceasefire.
• Recognise the State of Palestine and work toward a just and sustainable peace.
• Support the United Nations and humanitarian agencies to deliver aid based on the principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence.

We urge Israel to halt its military operations and allow the full and safe delivery of humanitarian aid by trusted organisations. We also call on Hamas to immediately release all remaining hostages and ensure humanitarian assistance is not obstructed.

The global nursing and midwifery community mourns the loss of our colleagues in Gaza. Their deaths are not only a personal tragedy but an affront to our shared values. The ongoing violence is destroying health services, interrupting chronic disease management, maternity care, emergency response, and paediatric programs.

In line with our commitment to social justice and human rights, the ANMF stands firmly against all forms of hate, racism, and violence. We reaffirm our commitment to peace, health equity, and the protection of healthcare workers everywhere.

Now is the time for courage and compassion. The people of Gaza—our colleagues, patients, and fellow human beings—deserve nothing less.

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