Israeli forces have reportedly targeted al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza and a convoy of ambulances in their relentless onslaught, resulting in a tragic loss of life and a rising number of casualties. The initial death toll stands at 13, with the numbers expected to rise, the Health Ministry in Gaza confirmed.
The attack on al-Shifa Hospital, filled with civilians seeking refuge at the time, has left between 15 and 20 people critically wounded, according to initial reports. Ashraf al-Qudra, the Health Ministry spokesman, said the injured were transported to the Rafah crossing with Egypt.
The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) reported that the entrance of the hospital, teeming with civilians, was struck by the Israeli occupational forces. Mohamed Abu Musbah, a PRCS spokesman, revealed that an ambulance driver and a PRCS staff member narrowly escaped death, although one sustained shrapnel wounds. A female patient being transported in an ambulance was also seriously wounded.
In a separate incident, the vicinity of the Indonesian Hospital in Gaza was bombed by the Israeli army, resulting in over 50 fatalities and numerous injuries. Atef al-Kahlout, the facility’s director, confirmed the devastating impact of the attack.
Social media footage depicted frantic rescue efforts amid the rubble, with the evening sky lit by fires and smoke. The hospital’s main generator had been shut down due to a fuel shortage caused by the Israeli blockade.
Al-Quds Hospital was also targeted, with an air raid in its vicinity causing numerous casualties. The Palestinian Red Crescent confirmed that the attack took place in the Tel al-Hawa area of Gaza City, where approximately 14,000 people, predominantly women and children, are seeking shelter at the hospital.
Since 7 October, Israel has killed over 9,000 Palestinians, including at least 3,648 children and 2,290 women. The number of injured has surpassed 32,000 since Israel launched its offensive, which is backed by the United States and Western governments.
The Israeli offensive has drawn widespread condemnation from several countries and international rights organisations and humanitarian agencies, who have expressed grave concern over the escalating attacks and its devastating impact on civilian lives.
