An Israeli air strike has struck part of Gaza’s final functioning hospital, killing at least several dozens and disrupting essential healthcare services, according to Palestinian health officials.
Al-Shifa Hospital was providing treatment to thousands of civilians injured during ongoing hostilities, and videos from the scene showed emergency workers evacuating bloodied patients – some children included – as smoke billowed from its collapsed facility.
“Our emergency ward and intensive care units have shut down, meaning many will die,” according to Hani al-Khatib, a surgeon at the hospital. “We’re overwhelmed, out of supplies and now without shelter.”
Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the strike and stated they were targeting Hamas infrastructure allegedly located within or nearby the hospital complex; they did not provide immediate evidence. IDF stated they provided advance warnings in an effort to minimize civilian casualties during their strike.
Human rights organizations and international aid agencies firmly criticized this strike, warning that targeting medical facilities violated international humanitarian law unless proven as being used for military purposes.
The World Health Organization (WHO) voiced deep alarm over this attack, noting it could bring on further fragmentation of Gaza’s already fragile healthcare infrastructure.
The Gaza Ministry of Health reported at least 42 fatalities, including patients, doctors, and civilians sheltering at hospitals in Gaza City. Rescue efforts are currently ongoing.
This strike marks an extraordinary escalation in a conflict which has already claimed thousands of lives and uprooted millions, without offering a clear resolution.