Food, Health & Access: A Blocked Mission to the West Bank
Dr. Simon Opher, a UK MP and medical professional, recently attempted a mission to the West Bank to assess healthcare provisions, but was denied entry by Israeli border officials despite holding an official invitation. This incident highlights the dire state of healthcare in the region, where financial constraints reportedly imposed by Israel have left hospitals and healthcare workers struggling to operate. The crisis not only threatens lives but also impacts access to fresh, nutritious food, a cornerstone of well-being. The Palestinian culinary heritage, rich in resilience and resourcefulness, faces challenges as families struggle to secure basic ingredients amid ongoing turmoil. For Malta, where healthcare and food are readily accessible, this story serves as a reminder to appreciate these privileges and advocate for global equity in health and nutrition. It underscores the universal importance of health—whether through nourishing meals, medical care, or community support—and calls for action to address disparities affecting vulnerable populations.
The Intersection of Food, Health, and Humanity: Lessons from a Blocked Mission to the West Bank
As a food and health platform focused on wellness and longevity, we often explore how nutrition and access to healthcare shape lives. But what happens when access to healthcare itself becomes a battleground? This question was recently brought into sharp focus when Dr. Simon Opher, a UK MP and medical professional, attempted to visit the West Bank to assess health provisions under the shadow of conflict.
Dr. Opher, alongside his Parliamentary colleague Dr. Peter Prinsley, embarked on a fact-finding mission to understand the state of healthcare in the West Bank, an area often overshadowed by political tension and humanitarian concerns. Their journey began in Amman, Jordan, with plans to cross into Israel and proceed to the West Bank. However, at the Sheikh Hussein border crossing—a location that sits 413 meters below sea level in the sweltering Jordan Valley—their mission came to an abrupt halt.
Despite holding an official invitation from the British Embassy and traveling with the intent to examine healthcare services in a non-political capacity, the Israeli border force deemed the pair a “threat to public safety, security, and order.” With these words, their journey ended before it had even begun.
Health as a Human Right
Healthcare is one of the cornerstones of a healthy society, just as food is fundamental to our well-being. Here in Malta, we are fortunate to enjoy readily accessible healthcare and a culinary tradition that emphasizes fresh, wholesome ingredients—both vital components of a long, vibrant life. Yet, the situation in the West Bank starkly contrasts with the privileges we may take for granted.
According to Dr. Opher, the Palestinian healthcare system is on the brink of collapse, largely due to financial constraints imposed by the Israeli government. Taxes collected on goods moving in and out of the West Bank—amounting to an estimated $1.2 billion—are reportedly withheld, leaving hospitals, suppliers, and healthcare workers unpaid. This financial stranglehold not only violates Articles 55, 56, and 59 of the Geneva Convention but also jeopardizes the lives of countless individuals who rely on these services.
Imagine if our healthcare system in Malta suddenly stopped functioning, leaving hospitals understaffed and critical supplies unavailable. How would this affect our ability to enjoy even the simplest pleasures, like sharing a meal with loved ones or pursuing an active lifestyle? The connection between food, health, and happiness becomes glaringly apparent when these basic rights are under threat.
A Culinary Culture Built on Resilience
The Palestinian territories have a rich culinary heritage rooted in resilience and resourcefulness. Dishes like maqluba (a layered rice and vegetable dish) and musakhan (sumac-seasoned chicken served on flatbread) showcase the power of simple, nutritious ingredients to nourish both body and soul. Yet, the ongoing crisis has made access to fresh, healthy food increasingly difficult for many families.
Similarly, Gaza’s healthcare workers—more than 1,500 of whom have reportedly been killed since 2023—have faced unimaginable challenges. In the West Bank, the numbers are no less grim, with an additional 25 to 30 healthcare workers killed. These statistics highlight a deliberate and devastating policy that denies Palestinians the medical care they desperately need.
For those of us in Malta, where food and healthcare are readily accessible, it’s worth reflecting on how intertwined these elements are in shaping the quality of life. Whether it’s the Mediterranean diet, renowned for its health benefits, or the robust healthcare system that supports our longevity, these are privileges that not everyone can claim.
A Call for Action and Awareness
Dr. Opher’s blocked mission underscores the urgent need for global awareness and action. As he noted, the goal was to visit healthcare facilities, engage in dialogue with officials, and make informed recommendations to improve the situation. Instead, their efforts were thwarted, leaving unanswered questions about what more can be done to support the health and well-being of those in the region.
For food and health enthusiasts in Malta, the story serves as a reminder of the broader context in which we live. While we savor locally sourced meals and enjoy the benefits of a thriving healthcare system, others are denied these basic rights. It’s a call to appreciate what we have, advocate for those who don’t, and recognize the universal importance of health—whether delivered through a nourishing meal, a doctor’s care, or a supportive community.
As we continue to explore the intersections of food, health, and lifestyle, let’s not forget the lessons from places like the West Bank. Every bite we take and every step we make toward well-being is a privilege that not everyone can share. Let’s use our voices, our plates, and our actions to make a difference, both locally and globally.