Israeli Forces Enter Gaza’s Largest Hospital in Targeted Operation
The Israeli military has entered al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza, the largest hospital in the region, in what they have called a “precise and targeted operation against Hamas.” According to The Washington Post, a doctor at the hospital has described the situation as one of “continuous shootings and bombings around the hospital,” where thousands of patients, staff, and displaced Gazans remain.
Both Israel and the United States have alleged that Hamas is using hospitals, including al-Shifa, and the tunnels underneath them for their military operations. However, Hamas has denied these allegations and accused the White House of giving “a green light” for the operation.
The Israeli military has stated that their troops “encountered explosives and terrorist squads” during the fight for entry into the hospital. However, a military-run news outlet has reported that so far, forces searching the hospital have not found any sign of hostages on-site.
The raid, which the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said began around 2 a.m. local time, has been shrouded in mystery due to ongoing communications outages, Israeli bombardments, and ground fighting.
This operation has sparked international concern and condemnation, with the United Nations and other humanitarian organizations calling for the protection of medical facilities and the safe passage of medical personnel and supplies.
The situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with the civilian population caught in the crossfire of the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The international community is calling for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further civilian casualties and to provide humanitarian aid to those in need.