Israeli Airstrike Hits Hospital in Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict
Early on Sunday, a pre-dawn airstrike by Israeli forces struck Al-Ahli hospital in northern Gaza, prompting an emergency evacuation as patients were given only 20 minutes to leave the premises. The attack has generated widespread condemnation and raised concerns over the safety of medical facilities in conflict zones.
Casualties and Damage
The strike reportedly led to the death of a young girl during the evacuation, as medical staff struggled to provide urgent care amid the chaos. The Hamas-run health ministry confirmed the casualty, underscoring the tragic consequences of the attack.
Al-Ahli hospital, managed by the Diocese of Jerusalem, is one of the few operational hospitals still functioning in Gaza City. In a statement, the diocese condemned the airstrike and noted that previous strikes had already targeted the hospital, with this incident marking the fifth attack since the conflict escalated in November 2023. They emphasized the timing was particularly poignant, occurring on Palm Sunday, a significant date in the Christian calendar commemorating Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem.
Evacuation and Aftermath
Dr. Fadel Naim, the hospital’s director, expressed concern that the damage would affect over 100 patients and numerous medical staff. Eyewitness accounts describe a frightening scene as patients were evacuated, some transported on hospital beds into the streets amidst the debris. Dr. Munir al-Boursh, director general of the health ministry, reflected on the terror experienced by patients during the evacuation.
Medical officials reported transferring patients to three alternative hospitals in Gaza City: Shifa, Al-Quds, and the Kuwait Field Hospital, ensuring continuity of care amidst the disruption.
Israeli Military Justifications
In defense of the airstrike, the Israeli military claimed that the facility housed a Hamas command and control center, alleging it was used for planning attacks against Israeli civilians and military personnel. Israel asserted that measures were taken to minimize harm, including prior warnings and the use of precise munitions, though such assertions remain contentious.
Following the hospital strike, another operation targeted a car in Deir al-Balah, resulting in the deaths of at least seven individuals, six of whom were identified as brothers. This follows an expansive military directive from Israel’s defense minister, indicating a broadening of military operations within Gaza.
Wider Conflict Context
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict reignited following a violent attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which resulted in numerous civilian casualties and captives. The ongoing retaliatory actions by Israel have reportedly claimed the lives of over 50,000 Palestinians to date, with many victims being women and children.
Call for International Intervention
In light of the recurring violence, the Diocese of Jerusalem has issued a plea for global intervention to protect medical and humanitarian institutions. They expressed their desire for an end to the hostilities and the associated suffering, emphasizing the urgent need for humane treatment in conflict areas.
Conclusion
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with escalating violence and a growing humanitarian crisis. Ongoing strikes on medical facilities raise profound questions regarding compliance with international law and the protection of non-combatants amidst warfare.