Israeli forces entered and searched Gaza’s Al Shifa hospital, concluding a siege that has drawn global attention over the humanitarian impact on trapped civilians and patients.
By yourNEWS Media Staff
GAZA – Israeli troops entered Al Shifa, Gaza’s largest hospital, conducting thorough searches amidst a tense but calm atmosphere, as reported by on-site witnesses. This action concludes a siege that raised international concerns regarding the well-being of thousands of civilians and patients trapped inside.
The focus of the Israeli ground operation is Al Shifa hospital, where, according to Israeli claims, Hamas has situated key operational facilities in underground tunnels. However, Hamas disputes these allegations.
Israeli forces assert their discovery of weapons and “terror infrastructure” within the hospital compound following an external clash with fighters, during which no internal conflict or disturbance with civilians, patients, or staff was reported.
Reuters correspondents from inside the compound reported a generally calm situation, punctuated by intermittent gunfire, with no immediate casualties reported within the hospital grounds.
The Israeli military released images of a soldier standing next to boxes labeled “medical supplies” and “baby food” within the hospital. Further photographs depicted troops in tactical formation around the facility.
The siege has notably impacted hundreds of patients and thousands of displaced civilians seeking refuge at the hospital. Gaza officials report multiple patient deaths, including three newborns, due to the siege’s impact on medical services.
The Israeli military commented on the initial resistance faced before entering the hospital, stating, “Before entering the hospital our forces were confronted by explosive devices and terrorist squads, resulting in the death of terrorists.”
The military further confirmed the delivery of vital supplies, including incubators and baby food, to the hospital, facilitated by Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) tanks, with medical teams and Arabic-speaking soldiers ensuring distribution.
A senior military official revealed the discovery of weapons and evidence of Hamas’s use of the hospital as a headquarters. In contrast, Hamas dismissed these claims as propagandistic fabrications aimed at justifying attacks on Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure.
Dr. Ahmed El Mohallalati, a surgeon at Al Shifa, recounted staff hiding during overnight fighting and the presence of Israeli tanks near the emergency department. He noted the relative relief of having Israeli forces within the hospital grounds, reducing direct external attacks.
The doctor dismissed Israeli claims of militant presence within the hospital as unfounded, detailing direct targeting of the hospital by Israeli weapons.
Another hospital witness, who requested anonymity, described the entry of tanks and subsequent Israeli troop searches, expressing fear and noting the absence of gunmen in the facility.
The United Nations’ aid chief Martin Griffiths emphasized on X, “Hospitals are not battlegrounds,” underscoring the imperative to protect all civilians and medical staff.
While Israel maintains the hospital overlies a Hamas headquarters, a claim supported by U.S. intelligence, the hospital has been described as a central operational hub for Hamas by Israeli army spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner.
Israel initiated its campaign against Hamas, the ruling Islamist militant group in Gaza, following cross-border incursions by Hamas fighters on Oct. 7. Israel cites significant casualties and hostage-taking incidents, marking it as the deadliest day in its history.
Subsequently, Israel has enforced a siege on Gaza, resulting in substantial Palestinian casualties and widespread displacement, with international calls for a ceasefire receiving limited response.
Qatari mediators have been negotiating a potential truce, involving the release of captives by both Hamas and Israel, though terms are yet to be finalized.