An Israeli airstrike targeted a tent camp within the premises of a crowded hospital in central Gaza, resulting in two Palestinian fatalities and injuring 15 others, including nearby journalists. The strike, filmed by an Associated Press reporter, occurred at the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah, where numerous displaced individuals sought refuge.
The aftermath witnessed chaotic scenes as people, including women and children, scattered in distress. The Israeli military claimed the strike hit a command center of the Islamic Jihad militant group while asserting that the hospital’s operations remained unaffected.
Amid escalating tensions, thousands have sought shelter in Gaza’s hospitals, perceiving them as relatively safe from airstrikes, though Israel has accused Hamas and other militants of operating in and around medical facilities.
Israeli troops have conducted raids on hospitals, including Gaza’s largest, Shifa Hospital, leading to heavy battles with militants and the discovery of concealed weapons. Palestinian families, including those displaced earlier in the conflict, reported being directed southward by Israeli soldiers following intense fighting.
Israeli Airstrike Hits Gaza Hospital Tent Camp, Kills 2 Palestinians, Injures Journalists (Credits: South China Morning Post)
Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure faces severe strain, with only a third of hospitals partially operational and frequent Israeli strikes causing casualties and overwhelming medical resources. Doctors are often compelled to treat patients on floors due to limited bed space and shortages of essential medical supplies. International observers, including a team of visiting doctors, have decried the harrowing impact of the conflict on Palestinian children, with calls for urgent evacuation of patients abroad for critical care.
The ongoing conflict, initiated by Hamas-led militants crossing the border and launching attacks in southern Israel, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement. Israel’s response has been characterized by a massive military campaign, driving approximately 80% of Gaza’s population from their homes. Despite warnings from allies and humanitarian groups, Israel plans a ground offensive in the southern city of Rafah.
Humanitarian crises loom large, with warnings of famine in isolated northern Gaza due to insufficient aid deliveries. Calls for unrestricted access for aid delivery by road are intensifying, as existing methods, including sea and air routes, prove inadequate.
The United Nations has urged Israel to open more land crossings and undertake measures to address the humanitarian crisis. However, efforts to broker ceasefires and secure hostage releases have yielded little progress, with Hamas demanding an end to the conflict and the withdrawal of Israeli forces, while Israel vows to continue until Hamas’s military and governing capabilities are dismantled. Amidst growing pressure, including mass demonstrations calling for early elections, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains steadfast in his stance.
