According to the IDF Spokesperson's Unit, the IDF initiated a new operation in the Shifa Hospital in northern Gaza early Monday morning. This action was taken based on intelligence indicating that senior Hamas officials were using the hospital as a command center for terrorist activities.
The IDF spokesperson, Daniel Hagari, emphasized that the operation focused on specific areas within the hospital complex due to compelling intelligence that required prompt action.
Israel Launches Military Operation on al-Shifa Hospital
According to Hagari, senior Hamas members have reportedly regrouped inside the hospital, using it as a command center to carry out attacks against Israel.
Witnesses recounted a scene of chaos within the complex. During a recorded call with his brother shared on a WhatsApp group, an individual expressed concern about the presence of tanks surrounding them. We are currently seeking shelter within the tent. There are reports of tank fire in the area near the compound.
Intense gunfire reverberated in the vicinity of the hospital, as shown in unverified footage shared on social media.
Thousands of displaced Palestinians have sought refuge at the hospital, which was targeted by Israeli forces during the conflict.
During the IDF's November 2023 raid, the IDF discovered a network of tunnels beneath the hospital that were reportedly used by Hamas. The terror group refutes allegations of utilizing medical facilities for its operations.
In a video message released early on Monday, Rear Adm Daniel Hagari, the IDF chief spokesperson, stated that the Israeli military was taking swift action in response to specific intelligence. According to the source, the hospital assured patients and staff that they would not need to evacuate and that operations would continue as usual during the raid.
Those seeking refuge at the complex will have the opportunity to exit the hospital using an evacuation route, as stated by the individual.
Additionally, he urged Hamas to surrender without delay. Before the conflict, al-Shifa hospital held the distinction of being the largest medical facility in Gaza.
According to witnesses in Gaza City, the al-Rimal neighborhood, where al-Shifa is situated, has been targeted by airstrikes. Additionally, it was reported that the complex was surrounded by tanks.
Hamas Terror Accused of Conducting Activities From Hospitals
Israel has consistently accused Hamas of conducting military operations from hospitals and other medical centers, a claim that the militant group vehemently denies.
In a video shared online, Hagari stated that the raid was conducted based on reliable information that required urgent intervention. There are reports suggesting that certain individuals have sought refuge within the Shifa hospital and are allegedly orchestrating attacks against Israel.
Israel has conducted operations in hospitals across the Gaza Strip as part of its efforts to combat Hamas following the 7 October attack. The attack resulted in the tragic loss of 1,200 lives, predominantly civilians, and the capture of approximately 250 hostages.
According to the health ministry, the number of casualties in Gaza as a result of Israel's campaign against Hamas is devastatingly high, with a significant number being women and children.
Last week, there was a call for an investigation into Israel's February raid on Nasser hospital in Khan Younis. It was reported that medical staff faced violent and humiliating treatment in detention following the attack.
The Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, remains steadfast in his commitment to achieving all of Israel's war objectives, regardless of any international pressure. Concerns about a potential humanitarian crisis loom as an offensive in Rafah continues.
This is a developing story. Keep yourself informed with the latest updates from HNGN.
