Israeli troops conducted a raid on Gaza’s Al Shifa Hospital compound, causing multiple casualties and triggering a fierce fire, as reported by Palestinian health authorities. The Israeli military defended the operation, stating it was based on intelligence indicating the hospital’s use by senior Hamas leaders.
According to the military, soldiers faced gunfire upon entering the compound and responded with live fire.
Al Shifa Hospital, previously Gaza’s largest healthcare facility, now operates partially and accommodates displaced civilians. Witness Mohammad Ali described the chaos, with explosions and tank movements resembling a “re-invasion” of Gaza City.
The Hamas-run health ministry reported a fire at the hospital entrance, leading to suffocation among displaced individuals seeking shelter inside.
Israeli forces dropped leaflets warning residents of the combat zone and instructing them to evacuate towards safer areas. The military released drone footage showing troops under fire within the hospital complex. Meanwhile, social media circulated images of Israeli tanks blocking Al Shifa’s main gate.
The military stressed caution in operations to minimize harm to patients, civilians, and medical staff. However, nearby, Israeli forces detained men at a school housing displaced families, and tanks fired shells near the Beach refugee camp, as reported by residents.
Hamas condemned the attack, accusing Israel of disregarding civilian lives. Last year, Israel faced criticism for a similar raid on Al Shifa, during which they claimed to have found Hamas tunnels. Hamas denies military use of the hospital.
The raid exacerbates tensions in the region, drawing condemnation from Palestinians and raising concerns about civilian casualties and humanitarian access.
