Israeli forces have initiated a military operation at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza for the second time, with the current operation entering its 11th day. The hospital, located in northern Gaza City, was previously raided in November, resulting in significant damage to the main building.
Despite the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claiming to have dismantled Hamas' command structure in northern Gaza in January, the recent operation at Al-Shifa has led to reports of civilian casualties, arrests, and destruction within the complex.
The IDF stated that civilians, patients, and medical teams were evacuated during the operation, but Palestinians inside and around Al-Shifa have disputed this claim, highlighting the heavy fighting and destruction in the area.
Israeli forces have targeted Hamas and Islamic Jihad militants in and around the hospital, resulting in the detention of hundreds and the death of dozens of militants. The IDF reported that approximately 200 terrorists have been eliminated in the vicinity of the hospital since the start of the operation.
While Israel has accused Hamas of using civilian facilities such as mosques and hospitals as shelters to avoid attacks, Hamas has denied these allegations. The recent raid at Al-Shifa has raised concerns about the safety of civilians, patients, and medical staff within the hospital.
The World Health Organization (WHO) Director General condemned the raid, emphasizing that hospitals should never be battlegrounds and calling for the protection of healthcare facilities and a cessation of hostilities.
The United States has supported Israel's actions at Al-Shifa, citing concerns about Hamas regaining control of the hospital. The US has urged Israel to find ways to protect civilians in Gaza, particularly in the face of a looming famine in northern Gaza.
As the situation at Al-Shifa Hospital unfolds, international organizations and humanitarian groups continue to monitor the developments and advocate for the safety and well-being of all individuals affected by the conflict.
