Israeli Forces Evacuate Hospitals in Northern Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict
In a significant escalation of military operations in the northern Gaza Strip, Israeli occupation forces have forcibly evacuated the Indonesian Hospital in Beit Lahia and targeted Kamal Adwan and Al Awda hospitals. This operation is part of a broader military campaign that has intensified since October 5, resulting in substantial casualties and displacement among the Palestinian population. According to Munir al-Barash, the director general of the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza, the evacuation order was issued on December 23, leading to the storming of the hospital early on December 24, forcing patients and medical staff to leave. Many evacuees reportedly traveled miles to reach other medical facilities in Gaza City, some on foot.
The situation has been exacerbated by ongoing bombardments, with Al Awda Hospital in Jabalia camp being specifically targeted. Mohammed Salha, the acting director of Al Awda, reported that the Israeli forces struck the hospital's third floor, where numerous patients were receiving care. The Islamic Resistance Movement, Hamas, condemned these actions as war crimes and called on the international community to intervene against what they describe as the fascist occupation's crimes.
Increased Attacks and Humanitarian Concerns
The Israeli military's operations have reportedly resulted in the deaths of approximately 4,000 Palestinians and injuries to thousands more since the beginning of the conflict, with tens of thousands displaced. In contrast, Israeli sources claim that 40 soldiers have been killed during this period. The director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, Hussam Abu Safiya, highlighted the introduction of booby-trapped robots in the vicinity of the hospital, which pose a significant threat to patients and medical staff. He noted that 20 individuals, including five medical personnel, were injured due to these attacks.
The situation within the hospitals is dire, with ongoing threats to electricity generators and the destruction of internal barriers. Marwan Al-Hamas, director of field hospitals in Gaza, emphasized the increasing danger posed to patients and medical staff due to the relentless attacks, which include bombings and a blockade that restricts essential supplies and aid.
Calls for International Action and Safe Passage for Aid
As the humanitarian crisis deepens, Munir Al-Barash warned that the forced evacuation of hospitals could lead to the deaths of vulnerable individuals, including children and the elderly. Activists have shared images on social media showing explosive barrels being planted by Israeli forces around Kamal Adwan Hospital, further endangering the facility and its occupants. The urgent need for a safe passage to deliver medical supplies and protect health workers from direct attacks has been reiterated by health officials in Gaza.
The situation in northern Gaza remains critical, with ongoing military operations raising alarms about the safety of medical facilities and the well-being of patients. The international community's response to these developments is awaited as calls for action grow louder.
