The Palestinian Family Planning and Protection Association (PFPPA) is deeply saddened to share the tragic loss of Dr Thabat Salim, a 30-year-old physician and much-loved member of the team.
Dr Thabat was killed in an airstrike on a house during bombings on Sunday, January 5th 2025, in Al-Nuseirat refugee camp, Gaza, just hours after providing care to women and children as part of PFPPA’s humanitarian response.
Through her work, Dr Thabat became a pillar of hope for the women and children she served. She was deeply respected by her colleagues and the community, who relied on her courage and dedication.
IPPF and its Member Association, the Palestinian Family Planning and Protection Association, are heartbroken by the loss of such an extraordinary and passionate colleague and friend.
PFPPA has shared:
“Dr. Thabat Salim, you were an unwavering white angel at every moment. You moved tirelessly among the ruins of war, doubling your efforts to provide humanitarian aid and services. You were a source of comfort, wiping the tears of mothers and easing the pain of children and patients suffering the horrors of war in Gaza.
"Thabat" (ثبات), a name that means "steadfastness" in Arabic, truly embodied your spirit. You were steadfast in giving, in humanity, and in principle. You never wavered from extending a helping hand during times of hardship, even when danger surrounded you on all sides.
Today, we bid you farewell, knowing that "Thabat" was not just your name but a trait you embodied, inspiring us with strength and determination to continue your path - a path of dedication and selflessness despite all challenges…Our only solace is that you are a shining star in Gaza’s sky, and that sky will remain illuminated by your contributions and lasting legacy”.
The tragic loss of Dr Thabat Salim is a devastating reminder of the cost of this ongoing violence. IPPF and PFPPA strongly condemn the continued escalation in Gaza, which has claimed the lives of 46,692 people since 7 October 2023, including over 1,000 healthcare workers who risked everything to serve their communities.
when
country
Palestine
region
Arab World
Related Member Association
Palestinian Family Planning and Protection Association (PFPPA)
About the Palestinian Family Planning and Protection Association
Established in Jerusalem in 1964, the Palestinian Family Planning and Protection Association (PFPPA) is locally registered as an independent, non-profit and non-governmental association with headquarters in Jerusalem. PFPPA provides sexual reproductive health services Gaza and the West Bank.
About the International Planned Parenthood Federation
IPPF is a global healthcare provider and a leading advocate of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) for all. Led by a courageous and determined group of women, IPPF was founded in 1952 at the Third International Planned Parenthood Conference. Today, we are a movement of 150 Member Associations and Collaborative Partners with a presence in over 146 countries.
Our work is wide-ranging, including comprehensive sex education, provision of contraceptive, safe abortion, and maternal care and responding to humanitarian crises. We pride ourselves on being local through our members and global through our network. At the heart of our mission is the provision of – and advocacy in support of – integrated healthcare to anyone who needs it regardless of race, gender, sex, income, and crucially no matter how remote.
