Royal College of Surgeons 'deeply saddened' by death of Palestinian doctor

The Royal College of Surgeons of England has published a statement following the killing of Ahmed Almaqadma, a Palestinian doctor who was executed during Israel's siege on al-Shifa hospital.

Almaqadma was awarded the college's Humanitarian Innovation Fellowship, and also contributed to its Humanitarian Surgery Initiative. 

The Palestinian plastic surgeon in his early thirties, and his mother Yusra al-Maqadmeh, a general practitioner, were found dead alongside their cousin Bassem al-Maqadmeh at the roundabout next to the Carrefour Mall in Gaza City, a short walk from al-Shifa. 

"We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of surgeon Dr Ahmed Almaqadma," said Tim Mitchell, president of the college.

"Our thoughts are with his family and dedicated medical colleagues caring for those injured during conflict, and trying to maintain services, under such terrible circumstances.

"The Royal College of Surgeons of England supports the World Health Organisation’s call for the protection of health facilities, health workers, patients and civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law."