Israeli Strike on Gaza Hospital Kills Seven, Sparks Controversy

An Israeli airstrike on Al-Wafaa Hospital in central Gaza City has resulted in at least seven fatalities and several injuries, according to Gaza's Civil Defense agency. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, December 29, 2024, has reignited debates over the targeting of medical facilities in the ongoing conflict.

Details of the Attack

The strike reportedly hit the upper floor of Al-Wafaa Hospital, causing significant damage and casualties. Gaza's Health Ministry stated that the hospital was "partially operational" at the time of the attack, providing care to patients with physical disabilities.

Conflicting Claims

The Israeli military asserts that the strike was a "precise" operation targeting Hamas militants:

• They claim the hospital was being used as a command center by Hamas's aerial defense unit.
• The Israeli army maintains that the building "does not currently serve as a hospital."

However, Gaza health officials dispute this claim:

• The Health Ministry's director general, Munir al-Barsh, insists the hospital was still in use.
• He stated the facility was being prepared to fully reopen in the coming days.

Broader Context

This attack comes amid intensified Israeli operations in northern Gaza:

• It follows a recent raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital, which the World Health Organization reports left that facility empty of patients and staff.
• The Israeli military arrested the director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, Dr. Hossam Abu Safiya, on suspicion of being a Hamas militant.

International Concerns

The targeting of hospitals has raised significant international concern:

• The World Health Organization has expressed alarm over the situation of patients and healthcare workers in Gaza.
• There are growing calls for the protection of medical facilities and personnel in conflict zones.

Ongoing Conflict

The strike on Al-Wafaa Hospital is part of Israel's broader offensive in Gaza, which has been ongoing since October 2023:

• The Israeli military says its operations aim to prevent Hamas from regrouping in northern Gaza.
• However, the attacks on medical facilities have sparked debate over the methods and targets of the military campaign.

As the conflict continues, the international community remains focused on the humanitarian situation in Gaza, particularly the status of healthcare facilities and the protection of civilians caught in the crossfire.