The United Nations (UN) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) have raised concerns and condemnation following Israeli forces’ raid on Al-Shifa hospital, the largest medical facility in Gaza. The incident occurred amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, with reports indicating that thousands of patients, staff, and displaced civilians are inside the hospital, facing challenges in evacuating due to intense fighting.
Israeli forces conducted a raid on Al-Shifa hospital, targeting what they claim is a Hamas command center located in tunnels beneath the medical facility. The UN estimates that around 2,300 individuals, including patients, medical staff, and displaced civilians, are currently inside the hospital. The situation raises concerns about the safety and well-being of those seeking refuge in the midst of the conflict.
UN Humanitarian Chief Martin Griffiths expressed his dismay at the military raids on Al-Shifa hospital. In a statement on social media, he emphasized the need to prioritize the protection of newborns, patients, medical staff, and all civilians, stating unequivocally that “hospitals are not battlegrounds.”
World Health Organization (WHO) Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus echoed these concerns, describing reports of the military incursion into Al-Shifa hospital as deeply troubling. He emphasized the worry for the safety of health personnel and patients, highlighting the disconnection with health personnel at the hospital.
The ICRC, in a statement, expressed extreme concern about the impact on sick and wounded individuals, medical staff, and civilians resulting from the raid on Al-Shifa hospital. The organization emphasized the necessity of taking all measures to avoid harm to patients, medical staff, and civilians, reiterating the imperative to ensure their protection at all times. The ICRC stated that it is in contact with relevant authorities and closely monitoring the situation.
The Israeli offensive in the Gaza Strip has been ongoing, marked by airstrikes and ground operations, following the incursion into southern Israel by Hamas on October 7. The health ministry in Gaza reports a significant number of casualties, with thousands of lives lost, including children. Al-Shifa hospital has become a key target in Israel’s military campaign, resulting in grim conditions within the medical facility, as described by witnesses.
The raid on Al-Shifa hospital has triggered international concern, with the UN, WHO, and ICRC demanding the protection of civilians, medical staff, and patients. The escalation of violence in the region raises urgent humanitarian challenges, emphasizing the critical need for a resolution to the conflict and ensuring the safety of those affected by the hostilities.
