Israeli Forces Conduct Operation at Gaza’s Al-Shifa Hospital Amid Escalating Conflict
Image Source: BNN
In a dramatic turn of events, Israeli forces launched a raid at Gaza’s Al-Shifa Hospital on Wednesday as part of what they called a “precise and targeted operation against Hamas in a specified area” of the facility. The military stated that the operation aimed to encourage Hamas terrorists to surrender. The move comes amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has forced 200,000 people to flee south in the past 10 days.
Israeli forces reportedly entered the western side of the medical complex, including emergency and reception buildings, as they engaged in clashes with Hamas fighters. The military emphasized that medical teams and Arabic speakers, specially trained for the complex environment, were part of the operation with the intent to avoid harm to civilians being allegedly used by Hamas as human shields.
Thousands of displaced civilians, patients, and medical staff are believed to be stranded inside the hospital complex, facing dire conditions due to shortages of essentials like food, water, and medicines. Reports suggest that invasive medical procedures are being conducted without anesthesia.
In response to the Israeli operation, Hamas accused US President Joe Biden of being “wholly responsible” for the raid on Al-Shifa Hospital. The group denounced the White House’s claim that the hospital was being used for military purposes, stating that it gave Israel the green light for the attack. The United States, while acknowledging intelligence suggesting Hamas using hospitals for military operations, urged the protection of hospitals and patients.
Meanwhile, Israel approved the supply of 24,000 liters of diesel fuel for United Nations operations in the Gaza Strip. Aid agencies in Gaza have highlighted the chronic fuel shortage, hampering efforts to deliver essential supplies to the besieged Palestinian territory.
The conflict, which began on October 7, has seen significant developments, including the Israeli capture of key government buildings in central Gaza City, such as the legislature building, police headquarters, and military intelligence headquarters. These buildings hold symbolic value, although the strategic significance remains unclear.
The toll of the conflict has been substantial, with over 11,000 Palestinians and more than 1,200 Israelis reported dead. The situation has prompted an exodus of people from Gaza, and efforts to provide humanitarian aid face challenges due to the ongoing hostilities.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, responding to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s call for restraint, defended Israel’s actions, stating that it is Hamas, not Israel, that should be held accountable for civilian casualties. The international community has witnessed a surge in protests, both condemning and supporting Israel’s actions.
As the conflict continues, the United Nations and other international actors are under pressure to address the escalating humanitarian crisis. The situation remains highly fluid, with diplomatic efforts underway to negotiate a ceasefire and pave the way for a lasting resolution to the longstanding Israel-Palestine conflict. The coming days will likely witness intensified diplomatic maneuvers as the world grapples with the implications of the latest developments in the region.
Team Profile
- News Writer
- Harshit Tokas is a Political Science and International Affairs Post-Graduate with a passion for understanding and analyzing complex political landscapes. Skilled in research, data analysis, and policy development. Eager to contribute his knowledge and insights to drive positive change.
Latest entries
English1 December 2023Ambati Rayudu Backs Ruturaj Gaikwad as a Future Leader of Indian Cricket
News1 December 2023Changing Tide: Pujara and Rahane Omitted from South Africa Tour Squad
News1 December 2023India Greenlights Procurement of Advanced Military Assets in Multi-billion Defence Upgrade
News1 December 2023Delhi Government Pushes for Completion of Asia’s Largest Wastewater Treatment Plant
