Israeli forces have intensified their operations in Gaza, with reports emerging of troops storming multiple hospitals, including the Al-Shifa medical complex. The Israeli military claims Hamas is using these facilities as command centres, a charge denied by Palestinian officials and medical staff.
Hospitals Becoming Battlegrounds
Eyewitnesses describe terrifying scenes as tanks and soldiers surround Gaza's largest hospitals. Patients, including premature babies, are reportedly at risk due to power cuts and dwindling medical supplies. "We're working in darkness, with no fuel for generators," one doctor told reporters.
Conflicting Narratives
While Israel maintains it's conducting precise operations against Hamas infrastructure, humanitarian organisations warn of potential war crimes. The World Health Organization has expressed "grave concern" about the situation, calling for immediate protection of medical facilities.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The hospital raids come as Gaza faces:
- Severe shortages of food and water
- Collapsing healthcare infrastructure
- Mass displacement of civilians
- Growing international calls for ceasefire
UN officials estimate over 11,000 Palestinians have died since the conflict began following Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people.
International Response
The situation has drawn condemnation from various governments and human rights groups. The Red Cross has called for immediate access to affected hospitals, while the UN Security Council prepares to discuss the escalating crisis.
