Israeli soldiers went into Gaza’s largest hospital, Al Shifa, on Wednesday. They were searching for members of the Palestinian group Hamas. This has raised concerns globally about the safety of the thousands of regular people stuck in the hospital.
The Israeli forces claim they targeted the hospital because they believe Hamas fighters are using it as their main headquarters, hiding in tunnels underneath. However, Hamas denies this.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that troops found weapons and what he called “terror infrastructure” in Al Shifa hospital after a clash with militants outside. He stated that once inside, there was no fighting and no issues with civilians, patients, or staff. Netanyahu emphasized that there is no place in Gaza that they cannot reach, and there are no hiding spots for Hamas members.
People in the area said things seemed tense but not chaotic as Israeli troops searched through buildings. There were occasional gunshots, but there were no immediate reports of anyone getting hurt on the premises.
The Israeli military shared pictures of a soldier next to boxes labeled “medical supplies” and “baby food” in Al Shifa, confirmed by Reuters. Other photos showed troops in formation passing by makeshift tents and mattresses.
In Gaza, there are reports that people, including newborns, have died due to Israel’s actions. Israel says they encountered explosives and fought terrorists before entering. They claim to have delivered supplies to the hospital. The conflict started when Hamas fighters entered Israel, leading to a deadly day. Israel has put Gaza under siege, causing significant casualties and displacements.
The World Health Organization (WHO) calls the military incursion into the hospital “totally unacceptable.” Israel maintains that the hospital is above a Hamas headquarters, a claim supported by the U.S. Israel rejects calls for a ceasefire, arguing it would benefit Hamas. Qatar is mediating negotiations for a truce, involving the release of captives. Ireland’s Foreign Minister joins calls for an immediate ceasefire to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Credit to Reuters as the original source.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israel-raids-gazas-al-shifa-hospital-2023-11-15/