An Israeli airstrike struck a tent camp inside a hospital in central Gaza on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of two Palestinians and injuries to 15 others. The strike targeted one of the tents in the courtyard of Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah, where numerous individuals had sought refuge after being displaced from their homes in the conflict-ridden region.
Journalists working from nearby tents witnessed the strike and its aftermath. The Israeli military has not yet provided a comment on the incident.
During the ongoing conflict, tens of thousands of people have sought shelter in Gaza's hospitals, perceiving them as relatively safe from airstrikes. However, Israel has accused Hamas and other militants of using medical facilities for their operations, leading to raids on several hospitals.
Israeli troops have been conducting operations at Shifa Hospital, Gaza's largest medical facility, for nearly two weeks, engaging in battles with militants in and around the compound. The military claims to have eliminated numerous fighters, including high-ranking Hamas members.
Due to the relentless Israeli airstrikes, only a third of Gaza's hospitals are partially operational. Medical professionals are facing challenges in treating patients, often resorting to providing care on the hospital floors due to the lack of available beds and essential medical supplies.
An international team of doctors who recently visited Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital expressed shock at the devastating impact of the conflict on Palestinian children.
The conflict began when Hamas-led militants crossed the border on Oct. 7, resulting in casualties and hostage-taking incidents. Israel responded with a significant military campaign, displacing a large portion of Gaza's population.
The United Nations has warned of a potential famine in northern Gaza due to the destruction and isolation of the region. Humanitarian officials are urging Israel to allow more aid deliveries by road to address the crisis.
According to Gaza's Health Ministry, the war has claimed the lives of at least 32,782 Palestinians, with a significant number of women and children among the casualties. Israel contends that a considerable portion of the deceased are militants, attributing civilian casualties to Hamas' presence in residential areas.
Efforts to broker a cease-fire and secure the release of hostages have been ongoing, with demands from Hamas for an end to the conflict and Israeli withdrawal. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the fight until Hamas' military capabilities are dismantled, despite mounting pressure for a resolution.
Cease-fire negotiations resumed in Cairo, with limited expectations of a breakthrough in the near future.
For more updates on the Israel-Hamas conflict, visit AP's war coverage.
