Gaza (Transatlantic Today) – In a devastating turn of events, the Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, the largest medical facility in the entire Gaza Strip, has been left completely out of service following a relentless two-week military operation by the Israeli Army in and around its premises, which concluded this morning.
Reports from the Civil Defense of the Gaza Strip reveal harrowing scenes within the hospital compound following the departure of Israeli troops. Mahmud Busal, a spokesman for the Civil Defense, stated that bodies showing signs of execution, burning, and decomposition were discovered, making it difficult to ascertain the precise death toll. He highlighted the challenges in counting victims as Israeli troops reportedly utilized heavy machinery to raise roads and bury bodies within the vicinity.
Dire Impact on Medical Operations
“The destruction inflicted upon the complex is so severe that resuming operations is impossible,” lamented Shifa Hospital director Marwan Abu Saada.
Israeli Allegations and Contradictions
According to the guardian, Israeli authorities maintain that their military operations were not against patients, medical staff, or equipment. However, the Gaza Ministry of Health, under Hamas control, reported at least 400 fatalities across the area due to the incursion, with over a thousand homes destroyed. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claim that the Al Shifa Hospital, once Gaza City’s primary medical center, was allegedly utilized as a hideout for Hamas fighters. The IDF described the operation as highly successful, claiming the elimination of numerous militants, including senior operatives.
International Calls for Investigation
“We urge the international community to investigate the events at the medical complex and seek alternative healthcare solutions for the affected population,” emphasized the hospital director.
Humanitarian Crisis Escalates
Images released post-withdrawal of Israeli forces depict extensive destruction throughout the hospital compound, with buildings razed and significant sections of the medical facility charred from relentless attacks spanning two weeks. Contrary to Israeli assertions, the UN health agency reported several patient deaths and numerous individuals endangered during the raid. Survivors who managed to flee the hospital recounted days of intense fighting, mass arrests, and forced marches past deceased individuals.
Survivors Speak Out
Videos published by Gaza’s health authorities show survivors reliving their ordeal. One survivor expressed shock at surviving 15 days without medical attention, while another recalled Israeli troops invading the hospital under cover of fire and savage shelling, using harsh tactics with no concern for civilian lives.
Israel has launched its fourth raid into one of the few working hospitals in northern Gaza, citing intelligence information of militia involvement within the complex. However, the tragic repercussions have left residents in shock, with the loss of essential medical facilities worsening an already terrible humanitarian situation in the region.
