Overview
Israeli forces conducted a raid at Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa, amidst the ongoing conflict with Hamas. This marks the fourth time the hospital has been targeted since the beginning of the war.
Details of the Raid
- Israeli forces launched an overnight raid at Al-Shifa, with reports of tanks and heavy gunfire causing panic within the medical complex.
- The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the raid, stating that it was a “high-precision operation in limited areas” of the hospital.
Incident at Al-Shifa
During the raid, Israeli army vehicles were stationed inside the hospital’s courtyard, launching missiles and opening fire at the specialized surgery building. The Hamas-run health ministry reported that the raid resulted in casualties and injuries.
Situation Inside the Hospital
- Dozens of Palestinians were seen fleeing the compound, where hundreds of displaced individuals, patients, and medical staff were seeking shelter.
- According to reports, around 30,000 people, including civilians and medical staff, were trapped inside the hospital during the raid.
Israeli Allegations and Response
The IDF spokesperson claimed that senior Hamas terrorists were using the hospital to conduct terrorist activities, leading to the raid. However, the Gaza health ministry dismissed these allegations as fabricated narratives.
International Concern
The Gaza health ministry called on international organizations to intervene and stop the violence against those inside Al-Shifa Hospital, citing it as a violation of international humanitarian law.
Conclusion
This latest raid follows a previous operation in November, which drew international attention and condemnation. The conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to escalate, with ongoing concerns for the safety and well-being of civilians and medical personnel.