Israeli Airstrikes Target Gaza Hospitals Amid Escalating Siege and Bombing Campaign
In its ongoing military campaign in Gaza, Israeli forces have targeted the Indonesian Hospital, located in northern Gaza, using drones amidst a devastating ground offensive throughout the region. This latest action has compounded an already fragile healthcare situation, as conflicts around the hospital forced its operations to cease.
Health officials reported on Sunday that the Indonesian Hospital was the primary facility serving the northern region, joining other medical institutions like Kamal Adwan and Beit Hanoon hospitals, which had also had to stop their services due to prior airstrikes. Dr. Marwan al-Sultan, the director of the Indonesian Hospital, stated that the hospital faced direct targeting, particularly affecting its intensive care unit. With approximately 30 patients and 15 medical staff inside, the situation has become critical as access to the facility has been severely restricted.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Gaza’s healthcare workers are committed to providing care, although they are experiencing severe resource shortages. Dr. Muhammad Abu Salmiya, the director of al-Shifa Hospital, noted that escalating attacks illustrate a troubling trend in the treatment of hospitals amid the ongoing conflict. He emphasized the urgent need for blood donations and medical supplies as thousands remain in dire need of medical attention.
The ongoing siege has further complicated the humanitarian crisis, as the Health Ministry confirmed that Israeli forces have impeded the arrival of both patients and medical professionals, effectively rendering the hospital non-functional. Following the shutdown of the Indonesian Hospital, all public medical facilities in the North Gaza Governorate are now out of operation, leaving the population with limited access to essential health services.
As the war continues into its 19th month, targeting healthcare facilities is increasingly raising alarms within the international community. Such actions fall under scrutiny for potentially violating the Geneva Conventions, which aim to protect civilian institutions during conflict.
In southern Gaza, other hospitals have similarly faced destruction, including the European Gaza Hospital, which recently came under attack resulting in widespread casualties. Reports indicate that an estimated 16 individuals lost their lives due to strikes around the hospital, exacerbating the already critical healthcare landscape in the region.
With substantial fear of famine and humanitarian collapse looming, officials are sounding the alarm, urging for immediate action to provide aid and support to those affected. The international community continues to watch closely as the situation evolves, with many hoping for resolution and aid delivery in order to alleviate the ongoing humanitarian challenges faced by the people of Gaza.
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