Israeli forces conducted a ground operation, entering Gaza's largest hospital, Al Shifa, on Wednesday. The operation targeted tunnels beneath the hospital, which Israel claims serve as the central headquarters for Hamas fighters. This move raised widespread concern about the safety of civilians trapped inside, including patients and displaced individuals seeking refuge.
According to witnesses, Israeli troops engaged in a clash with fighters outside the hospital before entering its premises. The military asserted that medical supplies were brought for those inside. Tanks reportedly entered the compound at 3:00 a.m., dismounting troops who spread out in the yard, searching the basement and entering buildings.
Al Shifa hospital, a critical target, has faced a siege that has affected its ability to operate essential medical equipment. The hospital's situation drew global attention due to the plight of hundreds of patients without power and thousands of displaced civilians seeking shelter. Gaza officials reported deaths, including newborns, due to Israel's encirclement of the facility.
Dr. Ahmed El Mohallalati, a surgeon at the hospital, described the chaos as shooting occurred both around and within the hospital. Tanks were observed moving around the premises, heightening tension among the staff. Another witness inside the hospital reported feeling scared as the Israeli troops conducted searches, with the administration informing occupants about the intent to search room by room.
In response, Hamas labeled the Israeli incursion a "barbaric assault" on a health facility protected by the Fourth Geneva Convention. Israel defended its actions, stating that the operation aimed at targeting Hamas in a specified area within Shifa hospital based on intelligence information and operational necessity.
The United States, on Tuesday, supported Israel's conclusions about the presence of a Hamas headquarters at Al Shifa. This prompted accusations from Hamas, asserting that the U.S., along with Israel, was responsible for a "war crime."
The ongoing conflict, initiated by Israel's campaign against Hamas, has resulted in a significant death toll and displacement in Gaza. The entire population, numbering 2.3 million, is under siege, with the northern half of Gaza evacuated by Israeli orders. The situation has prompted claims of war crimes, with Palestinians arguing that hospitals are protected by the Geneva Conventions. In response, Israel places blame on Hamas, alleging that they endanger civilians by hiding among them. The ground forces' gradual tightening of the circle around the Shifa complex intensified international concern, particularly with reported deaths of newborns.
