Today, March 18, the Israeli military initiated a mission in the vicinity of Gaza's largest hospital, Al-Shifa. Witnesses reported airstrikes targeting the surrounding area, which has been severely affected by the ongoing conflict.
According to a statement from the military, Israeli soldiers are currently engaged in a precise operation around the Shifa hospital premises. This action is based on intelligence indicating the hospital's use by senior Hamas members.
Eyewitnesses in Gaza City observed tanks encircling the hospital compound. It's reported that tens of thousands of Palestinians displaced by the conflict have sought refuge within the hospital complex, as confirmed by Gaza's health ministry, which is under Hamas control.
This is not the first time the Israeli army has conducted an operation at Al-Shifa. Similar actions in November drew condemnation internationally. Israel accuses Hamas of utilizing hospitals and medical facilities for military purposes, an allegation Hamas denies.
In response to the Israeli operation, the Hamas government's media office in Gaza condemned the incursion, labeling it a war crime. The health ministry in Gaza reported receiving distress calls from individuals near the hospital who claimed numerous casualties, unable to reach medical assistance due to ongoing gunfire and shelling.
Israeli military officials assert that precautions are being taken to minimize harm to patients, civilians, and medical staff at Al-Shifa. Arabic-speaking personnel have been deployed to facilitate communication with patients remaining in the hospital, and there is no mandate for evacuation.
Following a previous operation at Al-Shifa in November, Israel claimed to have discovered weapons and a tunnel within the hospital complex, allegations denied by Hamas. The United Nations reports significant damage to health facilities across the Gaza Strip since the conflict began.
Israel's Conflict with Gaza: Key Events on Day 162