Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ignited international fury by demanding the immediate evacuation of Gaza's largest hospital, claiming it serves as a covert command centre for Hamas militants.
The controversial statement, delivered during a national address, alleged that Hamas has established its main operational headquarters beneath the Al-Shifa Hospital complex - a claim vehemently denied by both hospital officials and Palestinian authorities.
Mounting Humanitarian Crisis
Medical staff at Al-Shifa Hospital are facing an impossible situation as they care for hundreds of patients, including:
- Critically ill individuals dependent on life-support systems
- Newborn babies in fragile incubators
- Elderly patients with complex medical needs
- Emergency trauma cases from ongoing bombardment
Hospital director Dr Mohammed Abu Salmiya described the evacuation demand as "a death sentence for our patients", emphasising that many cannot be moved without risking immediate fatalities.
International Condemnation
The United Nations and World Health Organization have joined growing international voices condemning the evacuation order. UN officials warned that forcing patients to leave hospitals amid active conflict violates international humanitarian law and could constitute a war crime.
Palestinian officials have labelled Netanyahu's allegations as a "modern blood libel", accusing Israel of creating pretexts for attacking medical facilities that serve Gaza's civilian population.
Deteriorating Conditions
Meanwhile, conditions within Gaza's healthcare system continue to worsen dramatically:
- Multiple hospitals are operating without reliable electricity
- Medical supplies are reaching critically low levels
- Staff are working around the clock with minimal resources
- Fuel shortages threaten to shut down essential services
The World Health Organization has documented at least 137 attacks on healthcare facilities in Gaza since hostilities escalated, further crippling an already overwhelmed medical system.
Diplomatic Fallout
The hospital evacuation demand has complicated international diplomatic efforts, with several Western allies expressing deep concern about the humanitarian impact. The situation at Al-Shifa has become a focal point in growing calls for ceasefire negotiations and protected humanitarian corridors.
As the crisis deepens, medical workers continue to operate in what the International Red Cross describes as "unimaginable conditions", prioritising patient care amid escalating violence and political accusations.
