Israel raids Gaza’s Shifa Hospital again

In a recent operation, Israeli forces targeted Shifa Hospital in Gaza Strip, alleging Hamas militants were launching attacks from within the hospital complex, where it’s reported tens of thousands have sought refuge. This follows a previous raid last November, where Israel claimed Hamas operated a command center under the hospital, though presented evidence was deemed inconclusive by some, sparking criticism over potential civilian endangerment.

Witnesses at the hospital described the area being encircled by Israeli military forces, with reports of snipers targeting individuals inside. According to these accounts, the Israeli military entered various parts of the hospital, detaining a number of individuals.

Abdel-Hady Sayed, a resident within the hospital for over three months, depicted a scene of despair, with medical staff and ambulances unable to safely navigate due to the risk of gunfire. The Health Ministry of Gaza reported Israeli forces targeted a surgical wing, causing a fire at one of the hospital’s entrances. It’s estimated that around 30,000 people, comprising patients, medical personnel, and displaced civilians, are sheltering in the hospital.

Israeli military spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari described the action as a precise operation targeting Hamas militants purportedly using the hospital as an operational base. The military released footage claiming to show militants attacking from within the hospital premises and reported detaining about 80 individuals during the operation.

Israel has accused Hamas of using civilian infrastructures, like hospitals, as cover for military activities. This tactic has led to numerous hospital raids by Israeli forces since the conflict ignited on October 7, due to a Hamas incursion into southern Israel. The ongoing conflict has severely impacted Gaza’s healthcare system and displaced a significant portion of its population, with reports of widespread starvation among residents.

The Gaza Health Ministry’s latest figures suggest over 31,000 Palestinians have died since the conflict began, noting a significant portion of casualties are women and children. The figures do not distinguish between civilians and combatants.

The initial attack by Palestinian militants, which precipitated the current conflict, resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities and 250 hostages, with Hamas reportedly still holding around 100 individuals.

Efforts by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt to mediate a ceasefire and facilitate a hostage release have yet to bridge the significant divides, with Hamas seeking assurances for an end to hostilities and Israel determined to continue its military actions until Hamas is dismantled.