Israeli forces launched a raid on Al-Shifa Hospital in the Gaza Strip, alleging that Hamas terrorists regrouped there and fired attacks from inside the compound. This action follows a previous raid in November, where the Israeli military claimed Hamas maintained a command center within the hospital, a claim later supported by a US intelligence report.
Reports indicate that around 30,000 people, including patients, medical staff, and displaced individuals seeking refuge, were sheltering at the hospital during the raid. Witnesses described a tense situation with Israeli forces surrounding the complex, firing at people inside, and detaining dozens of individuals.
The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry accused the Israeli army of targeting a building used for specialized surgeries and starting a fire at the hospital's gate. The Israeli military spokesperson stated that the operation targeted senior Hamas militants using the hospital to direct attacks.
Israel has alleged that Hamas is using civilian facilities to shield its fighters, leading to multiple hospital raids during the ongoing conflict. The situation has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with medical facilities struggling due to fuel and supply shortages.
According to the Gaza Health Ministry, over 31,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war, with a significant portion of the population displaced and facing starvation. The conflict began with a surprise attack by Hamas on Israel, resulting in casualties and hostages taken.
Efforts by the US, Qatar, and Egypt to broker a cease-fire and secure the release of hostages have so far been unsuccessful, with both sides unable to reach an agreement.
