Israel Completes Operation at al-Shifa Hospital

Israeli forces have completed a comprehensive two-week military operation at Gaza’s largest hospital complex, Al-Shifa, withdrawing and leaving extensive damage and numerous casualties in their wake.

The Israeli military announced that the operation targeted Palestinian militants within the Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, claiming the lives of at least 200 combatants and uncovering significant caches of weapons, explosives, and funds.

The Health Ministry in Hamas-controlled Gaza reported substantial destruction within and around the medical complex due to intense Israeli airstrikes and artillery fire. Many deceased individuals have been found within the facility, rendering it non-operational.

More than 20 fatalities were reported by a medical professional to AFP, some of whom were casualties of the withdrawal process.

This event is part of a broader conflict that erupted following an attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7, which has led to significant destruction in Gaza and a high number of casualties.

The fighting has prompted large-scale displacement in both southern Lebanon and northern Israel, with Israeli forces threatening further operations to distance Hezbollah from the border.

Amid ongoing hostilities, international mediators from the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt have been seeking a ceasefire and the release of hostages, but to no avail according to a Hamas official.

Despite the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with the populace on the verge of famine, efforts to deliver aid continue, with a second ship carrying relief goods recently arriving off Gaza’s coast from Cyprus.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who recently underwent surgery, remains determined to counter Hamas, including potential operations in Rafah, a densely populated city in southern Gaza.

The conflict has led to large protests in Israel and strained relations with the United States, particularly regarding strategies involving Rafah. A virtual meeting between the U.S. and Israel was scheduled to discuss the situation, with potential for an in-person meeting later.

In related developments, Israeli police have arrested the sister of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh as part of a terror investigation.

The extensive military activities around Al-Shifa Hospital have concluded, leaving behind a scene of devastation, marking yet another chapter in the prolonged conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants, which has resulted in thousands of deaths, primarily among civilians.