The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a grave warning on Friday over "Israel's" impending ground offensive in the city of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, stating that such an attack could lead to a "bloodbath" and result in a substantial increase in mortality among the civilian population.

"WHO is deeply concerned that a full-scale military operation in Rafah could lead to a bloodbath. More than 1.2 million people are currently sheltering in the area, many unable to move anywhere else ... WHO warns that substantial additional mortality and morbidity is expected when the military incursion takes place," the statement issued by the organization read. 

Rafah incursion would substantially increase mortality and morbidity and further weaken an already broken health system

WHO is deeply concerned that a full-scale military operation in Rafah could lead to a bloodbath. More than 1.2 million people are currently sheltering in the… pic.twitter.com/6i7iNFjffx

— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) May 3, 2024

The planned offensive is expected to add more strain to Gaza's already faltering healthcare system by further limiting access to essential services such as food, water, sanitation, and medical care.

This in turn could lead to disease outbreaks, increased hunger, and additional deaths among the civilian population.

With only about 30% of hospitals and primary health centers functional in the Gaza Strip, mortality rates are likely to soar even higher.

The organization called for "an immediate and lasting ceasefire," unhindered entry of aid into Gaza,  respect for health care facilities, and ensuring the safety of health and humanitarian workers. 

"Those striving to save lives should not have to endanger their own," the organization said. 

Read more: Israeli troops refusing to follow commands for Rafah ground invasion

On Thursday, the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza announced that the toll of Israeli crimes against the Palestinian health sector in Gaza has risen to 1,500 wounded and 309 prisoners.

The announcement coincided with news of the martyrdom of a prominent doctor, Dr. Adnan Al-Bursh, who was tortured to death by Israeli forces. 

Earlier in the day, the ministry reported that the death toll has risen to 34,662, with 77,867 wounded.

The Palestinian Civil Defense authorities said that over 10,000 bodies are still trapped under the rubble across Gaza.

The UN Aid Coordination Office OCHA said that "it might require up to three years to recover the bodies."