Reports from a hospital in northern Gaza indicate that Israeli forces have surrounded Kamal Adwan Hospital, demanding the evacuation of all staff and patients. This action follows a nearby airstrike that resulted in the deaths of approximately 50 people, including medical workers.
Hospital director Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya confirmed the siege on social media, stating that Israeli forces are issuing evacuation orders. Witnesses inside the hospital reported being instructed to move to the compound's yard.
Recent attacks on the hospital and its vicinity have been ongoing, with a video showing a fire in the hospital's archive department amid heavy gunfire. The Ministry of Health in Gaza and Dr. Abu Safiya reported that about 50 individuals, including medical personnel, lost their lives in the strikes.
Among the casualties were three hospital workers, including paediatrician Dr. Ahmed Samour, who was off-duty but present in a nearby building when it was hit. Two paramedics en route to the hospital also perished in a separate strike.
The Israeli military stated it was unaware of strikes near the hospital but is investigating reports of medical staff fatalities. Israel has been conducting aerial and ground operations in northern Gaza since October, targeting Hamas presence.
Allegations of Hamas using hospitals for military purposes have been made by Israel, although Hamas denies these claims. The World Health Organization has criticized Israeli authorities for denying humanitarian access to Kamal Adwan Hospital.
Physicians for Human Rights filed a petition demanding an end to attacks on the hospital, citing the dire impact on medical services in the region. Evacuating the hospital would leave thousands without vital medical care, as ongoing violence hampers ambulance operations.
