An Israeli air strike targeted the al-Ahli Arab Baptist Hospital in Gaza City, resulting in severe damage and raising concerns about the safety of medical facilities in the region. The Hamas-run health ministry reported that the strike occurred while hundreds of patients, medical staff, and visitors were present in the hospital.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed they struck a command and control center used by Hamas terrorists. They described the hospital as one of the oldest and most vital healthcare institutions in the Gaza Strip. The IDF stated that they took measures to minimize harm to civilians and the hospital, including issuing warnings and using precise munitions.
During the evacuation following the strike, one patient died due to the inability of medical staff to provide urgent care. No other casualties have been reported so far. Dr. Fadel Naim, the hospital’s director, confirmed that they had received warnings about the impending attack.
Hamas has consistently denied using hospitals for military purposes and accused Israel of deliberately targeting medical infrastructure. The ongoing conflict has led to significant casualties, with reports indicating over 50,000 Palestinians killed since the outbreak of hostilities. The health ministry has noted that many of the deceased are women and children.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy criticized the attacks on medical facilities, stating that they have severely limited access to healthcare in Gaza. He emphasized the need for diplomacy to resolve the conflict rather than further violence.
The air strike comes after Israel resumed its military offensive against Hamas, following a brief ceasefire. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has also imposed a blockade on essential supplies, raising concerns among human rights groups about potential war crimes.
The situation remains tense as Israel continues its operations in Gaza, with the conflict having escalated since Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in significant loss of life and hostage-taking. As hostilities persist, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, with many civilians caught in the crossfire.