King visits Salt hospital after medical tragedy

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah rushed to Salt public hospital after seven COVID-19 patients were reported dead following a disruption in oxygen supply in the facility.

A video circulated on social media platforms showed a visibly angry King denouncing the incident and expressing dismay over the medical tragedy. Another video showed people outside the hospital calling on His Majesty to hold those responsible for the medical negligence accountable. 

Prime Minister Bisher Al Khasawneh said the government "bears full responsibility" for the medical tragedy in the New Salt Public Hospital.

"What happened was absolutely tragic and cannot be justified," the premier said, adding he felt "ashamed" of the tragic incident.

During a press conference on Saturday, Khasawneh said: "The situation of having a disruption in oxygen supply at the time of the pandemic is absurd and unacceptable." 

Khasawneh said that the government is waiting for the outcomes of the investigation for a course correction.

The prime minister said he ordered the President of the Judicial Council to lead the fact-finding team and ensure the results of the probe are released independently and clearly, vowing that those found responsible for the incident will be held accountable as per the law.