Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza has been left in ruins following a 14-day siege by the Israel Defense Forces. The World Health Organization (WHO) spokesperson, Margaret Harris, confirmed the devastating news during a recent press conference.
Harris stated that the hospital is no longer able to function in any capacity as a medical facility. The destruction of Al-Shifa Hospital has dealt a severe blow to the health system in Gaza, with the complex being described as 'gone' by hospital directors.
Satellite imagery from April 1 revealed extensive bulldozing and destruction of buildings within the hospital complex. The Gaza Civil Defense reported the discovery of at least 300 bodies at the site, further exacerbating the tragic situation.
The IDF claimed that the siege on Al-Shifa Hospital was part of an 'anti-terror' mission, asserting that efforts were made to distinguish between civilians and militants within the complex. However, the extent of the damage and loss of life has sparked outrage and condemnation from various quarters.
WHO is planning to send a mission to Al-Shifa Hospital to assess the situation and provide aid to those affected. Harris emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire, stressing that the destruction of the hospital has had a devastating impact on the local healthcare infrastructure.
The aftermath of the siege has been likened to a 'horror movie' by witnesses, with reports of bodies being buried inside and around the complex. The exact number of casualties is difficult to determine due to the extensive damage caused by the siege.
