Israeli forces recently conducted a raid in northern Gaza, resulting in the arrest of the director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya. This incident led to the closure of the last major functioning health facility in the region, leaving the hospital empty. Patients, caregivers, and health workers were subsequently transferred to the Indonesian Hospital in Beit Lahiya, as reported by the World Health Organization.
The Israeli military stated that Dr. Abu Safiya was suspected of being a Hamas terrorist operative and that the hospital was allegedly being used as a 'Hamas terror stronghold.' The IDF claimed to have detained numerous individuals, including Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorists, during the raid.
Reports emerged of disturbing actions taken by Israeli forces, including ordering patients and staff to strip in the streets. Patients recounted being subjected to beatings and forced to remove their clothing, with some individuals sustaining injuries during the ordeal.
Following the closure of Kamal Adwan Hospital, patients were relocated to the Indonesian Hospital, which was described as destroyed and nonfunctional by the WHO. The situation escalated further when a fire broke out in the Indonesian Hospital, leading to injuries and one reported fatality.
The IDF defended its actions, stating that the detention of suspects and search procedures were conducted in accordance with international law. However, allegations of strip searches and mistreatment of patients raised concerns about the treatment of individuals in the conflict zone.
The closure of Kamal Adwan Hospital has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in northern Gaza, with reports of limited access to medical care and essential services. The WHO had previously highlighted the urgent need for humanitarian assistance in the region, including surgical interventions for injured patients.
As the situation unfolds, calls for international intervention and monitoring of healthcare facilities in Gaza have intensified, with both Israeli forces and Palestinian authorities facing scrutiny over their actions in the conflict zone.
