Israel launched a series of intensified airstrikes on Gaza on Palm Sunday, hitting key locations, including a hospital in the northern part of Gaza. The strikes have resulted in at least 21 fatalities, including several children. The escalation comes amid rising tensions and ongoing violence, as Israel vows to expand its military presence in the coastal enclave.

The Attack on Al-Ahli Hospital

One of the most devastating hits was on Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City, which has been severely damaged in the latest Israeli strike. The hospital director, Dr. Fadel Naim, reported that the emergency room, pharmacy, and nearby buildings sustained significant damage, impacting more than 100 patients and a large number of medical staff.

The hospital, which has been providing critical care to the region’s population, was one of the facilities affected in a series of airstrikes on northern Gaza. Despite an evacuation order being issued by Israeli forces, a young girl died during the evacuation. The Gaza Health Ministry explained that due to the chaotic circumstances and lack of resources, medical personnel were unable to administer necessary treatment in time.

Israel’s Claims and Hamas Denial

Israel has stated that the strike targeted a Hamas command and control center located within the hospital. However, Israel has not provided any evidence to substantiate the claim. The Palestinian group Hamas has firmly denied these allegations, labeling the attack as an act of aggression targeting civilian infrastructure.

Response from the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem

The attack on Al-Ahli Hospital also drew international condemnation. The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, which operates the hospital, released a statement decrying the airstrike and calling attention to its timing. The attack occurred at the beginning of Holy Week, which includes Palm Sunday, the commemoration of Jesus Christ's entry into Jerusalem. The diocese highlighted the significance of the timing and condemned the strike as an attack on humanitarian work.

The Devastation in Gaza

In the aftermath of the attack, footage from the Associated Press revealed the extent of the destruction at Al-Ahli Hospital, with collapsed roofs and rubble surrounding the area. Dr. Munir al-Boursh, the Director General of the Gaza Health Ministry, described how patients had to be taken outside and forced to sleep in the streets, with no safe space left inside the hospital.

One of the victims, Mohammad Abu Nasser, who was injured during the airstrike, expressed the extent of the destruction. From his bed outside the hospital, he observed, “Nothing was left safe inside the hospital, or all over Gaza.” His words underscore the severe humanitarian crisis that has unfolded in the region.

Conclusion

The recent escalation of violence between Israel and Palestinian groups in Gaza has led to mounting casualties and extensive damage to civilian infrastructure. The attack on Al-Ahli Hospital is a tragic example of the toll on innocent lives, particularly vulnerable groups such as children. As the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, the international community remains on edge, with calls for urgent action to protect civilians and provide necessary aid.

This incident highlights the growing concerns about the impact of ongoing military operations on humanitarian work in Gaza and raises serious questions about the safety and protection of civilians in conflict zones.

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