Public Health Crisis in Gaza

To the Editor The Viewpoint by Drs Ijaz and Habib seeks to shine a light on the responsibility of US-based academic medical journals in the setting of the public health crisis in Gaza. We do not agree with the facts related to the causes and consequences of the crises, nor do we agree with the conclusions and recommendations as stated in the Viewpoint. The authors place responsibility and blame for the health crises solely on Israel. Hamas’ role in the events of October 7, 2023, and Hamas’ role in the ongoing humanitarian crises are not mentioned. The fact that the barbaric Hamas-led attack continues to affect health across Israel also is omitted. The authors conclude that academic medical journals can help to “normalize academic discourse and engagement among the medical community on the public health crisis in Gaza.”