Israeli Forces Bombard Gaza, Killing 19 Palestinians and Targeting Hospitals
Israeli forces continued their assault on southern Gaza on Tuesday, killing at least 19 people and targeting hospitals, according to officials in the region. Tanks have advanced to the gates of the enclave’s biggest hospital, where health officials are reporting the deaths of dozens of patients due to a lack of power and heavy fighting.
The military has also positioned tanks outside Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, which Israel claims houses a headquarters for Hamas fighters. Israeli officials allege that the group is using patients as shields, an accusation that Hamas denies.
In an effort to protect hospitals, U.S. President Joe Biden called on Israel to exercise less intrusive action and remain hopeful for a ceasefire.
As the violence escalates, the armed wing of Hamas has indicated a willingness to release up to 70 women and children held in Gaza in exchange for a five-day truce. However, Israel has rejected the idea of a ceasefire, stating that Hamas would use it to regroup.
The growing violence in the West Bank has resulted in at least six Palestinians being killed by Israeli forces, fueling fears of a larger conflict erupting in the region. Both sides are at a standoff as they weigh the possibility of a ceasefire and seek to find a resolution to the escalating violence.