Israeli airstrikes have intensified in Gaza, notably hitting Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City, leading to the evacuation of patients. This targeted assault, which occurred early in the morning, was preceded by a warning from Israel. According to the Gaza health ministry, the evacuation proved tragic for one patient—a girl who died due to the disruption in medical care.
The Al-Ahli Hospital, managed by the Diocese of Jerusalem, has denounced the strike, highlighting the timing on Palm Sunday, a significant date in the Christian calendar marking the beginning of Holy Week, and commemorating Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem.
Israel has stated that the hospital was being used by Hamas as a command centre for planning attacks against Israeli civilians and soldiers, although it did not provide evidence to support this claim. In a bid to minimise harm, Israel stated that they undertook prior measures, including issuing evacuation notices and deploying precise munitions.
Subsequently, another strike in Deir al-Balah targeted a vehicle, resulting in the deaths of at least seven individuals, including six brothers. The Israeli military claimed the operation addressed a separate command centre where Hamas militants were reportedly coordinating an attack against Israeli forces.
Following the escalation, Israel’s Defence Minister indicated that military operations in Gaza would significantly expand, urging civilians to evacuate from conflict zones. Additionally, Israel announced the completion of the Morag corridor, isolating Rafah from the rest of Gaza and signalling further military actions across the region.
Amid these developments, there remains a pressing situation regarding 59 hostages held by Hamas, with calls for their release continuing from Israeli officials.
Dr Fadel Naim, the hospital director, reported that they were forewarned of the impending strike, which caused severe damage to the emergency room and pharmacy, impacting over 100 patients and numerous medical staff. Following the attack, the health ministry disclosed that patients had been relocated to other facilities, including Shifa and Al-Quds hospitals.
In the aftermath of these airstrikes, Gaza’s health ministry reported at least 11 fatalities along with over 100 injuries in a single day. Medical facilities in conflict zones typically hold special protections under international law, yet they frequently become targets. In contrast to standard practices in warfare, Israel’s military operations have increasingly focused on hospitals, with claims that Hamas misuses these sites for militant purposes.
Earlier in the conflict, Israel had previously struck Nasser Hospital, causing casualties and significant destruction. The ongoing conflict, which began in the aftermath of a deadly assault by Hamas on October 7, 2023, has resulted in over 50,000 Palestinian deaths as reported by Gaza’s health ministry, affecting a large number of women and children among those counted.