Gaza Strip, December 8, 2023 — Tension escalated in the Gaza Strip as Israeli forces raided the Kamal Adwan Hospital on Friday. The hospital, located in Beit Lahiya on the northern edge of Gaza, was stormed by troops who ordered the evacuation of dozens of patients and hundreds of civilians. Parts of the facility were engulfed in flames during the incursion, according to Health Ministry officials.
Eyewitnesses reported chaos as medical staff and patients were forced to flee. Munir Al-Bursh, director at the Health Ministry, expressed deep concern, stating, “The occupation forces are inside the hospital now and they are burning it.”
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) released a statement claiming the operation targeted “terrorist infrastructure and operatives” allegedly using the hospital as a stronghold. The IDF asserted efforts were made to limit harm to civilians by facilitating the secure evacuation of those inside prior to the raid.
Hamas, the governing authority in Gaza, vehemently denied any militant presence within the hospital. “We categorically deny the presence of any military activity or resistance fighters in the hospital,” Hamas declared, accusing the IDF of fabricating excuses to justify their actions. They called upon the United Nations to investigate the incident and the broader impact on civilians in northern Gaza.
The World Health Organization (WHO) condemned the raid, noting that Kamal Adwan Hospital was the last major health facility serving over 400,000 people in northern Gaza. “Initial reports indicate that key departments were severely burnt and destroyed,” the WHO stated. The organization expressed deep concern for the remaining 60 health workers and 25 critically ill patients who were unable to evacuate.
This incident adds to the mounting humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where Israeli strikes elsewhere reportedly killed at least 25 people on the same day, including 15 individuals in a single house in Gaza City. The Palestinian presidency labeled the raid a “serious crime” and a blatant violation of international law, urging global health institutions to protect medical personnel and facilities.
The conflict intensified following the events of October 7, when a Hamas-led attack resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis and the taking of around 250 hostages. In response, Israel launched a large-scale offensive against Gaza. The Palestinian death toll has since risen to over 45,000, as reported by Gaza-based health authorities.
The international community watches with growing concern as the humanitarian situation deteriorates. Calls for a ceasefire and the protection of civilians, especially those needing medical care, are becoming increasingly urgent.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
