Tragic Airstrike Hits Gaza Hospital, Leaving Casualties in Its Wake
Israeli Airstrike Targets Gaza Field Hospital
Deir Al-Balah: On Tuesday, an Israeli airstrike targeted the northern entrance of a field hospital in the Gaza Strip, resulting in the death of a medic and injuring nine others, as reported by a hospital spokesperson.
The attack struck the Kuwaiti Field Hospital located in the Muwasi region, where a large number of individuals have taken refuge in extensive tent camps. Among the injured were both patients and medical staff, with two patients reported to be in critical condition following the strike, according to Saber Mohammed, the hospital representative.
The Israeli military has not yet issued a statement regarding this incident.
Throughout the ongoing conflict, military operations have previously targeted hospitals, with claims that Hamas militants are using these facilities for military activities. Hospital personnel have refuted these claims, accusing Israel of endangering civilian lives and severely damaging the healthcare system in the region.
Just days prior, Israel had struck the last significant hospital in northern Gaza that was providing essential care, following an evacuation order. A patient died during this evacuation, and the attack caused extensive damage to the emergency room, pharmacy, and adjacent structures, as stated by Al-Ahli Hospital.
The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, which oversees the hospital, condemned the airstrike.
Israel asserted that it aimed at a Hamas command and control center within the hospital, although no evidence was provided. Hamas has denied these allegations.
The conflict escalated on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched an attack on southern Israel, resulting in approximately 1,200 fatalities, predominantly among civilians, and the abduction of 251 individuals. Currently, 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with 24 believed to be alive after most were released during ceasefire negotiations.
According to the latest figures from Gaza's Health Ministry, Israel's retaliatory actions have resulted in over 51,000 deaths. This includes more than 1,600 fatalities since the resumption of hostilities last month, aimed at compelling Hamas to agree to modifications in the ceasefire terms.
The Health Ministry, which is managed by medical professionals but operates under the Hamas-led government, is generally regarded as a reliable source by UN agencies and independent analysts, despite Israel disputing its figures. Israel claims to have killed around 20,000 militants, although it has not substantiated this with evidence.
While the ministry does not specify the number of civilian versus combatant casualties, it indicates that women and children constitute over half of the deceased. The ongoing offensive has devastated much of the territory and displaced nearly 90% of the population, which is approximately 2 million Palestinians.