Israel intensified its strikes across Gaza on Palm Sunday, targeting various sites including a hospital in the north. The series of attacks resulted in the deaths of at least 21 people, including children, as Israel announced plans to increase its security presence in the region.
Attack on Al-Ahli Hospital
The predawn strike on Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City was particularly devastating, as it is one of the last major hospitals in northern Gaza providing essential healthcare services. The hospital director, Dr. Fadel Naim, reported severe damage to the emergency room, pharmacy, and surrounding structures, impacting over 100 patients and numerous staff members.
Tragically, one patient, a young girl, succumbed during the evacuation following an Israeli warning due to the staff’s inability to administer urgent care. The Gaza Health Ministry confirmed the incident and Israel’s claim of targeting a Hamas command center at the hospital, which was refuted by Hamas.
Condemnation and Commemoration
Al-Ahli Hospital, affiliated with the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, denounced the attack, emphasizing that it occurred on Palm Sunday, the commencement of Holy Week, a significant period in the Christian calendar. While the hospital bore the brunt of the strikes, worshippers in Gaza City observed Palm Sunday in a local church, offering a stark contrast between the intact church and the widespread destruction outside.
The aftermath of the strikes left the hospital inoperable, necessitating the transfer of patients to other medical facilities in Gaza City. Medical Aid for Palestinians highlighted that this assault marked the fifth targeting of Al-Ahli Hospital since the conflict escalated.
International Law and Humanitarian Concerns
Under international law, hospitals enjoy special protection, yet they have repeatedly been subjected to attacks and sieges. The targeting of healthcare institutions raises serious humanitarian concerns, especially when civilian casualties, including women and children, continue to mount in the region.
As the conflict persists, with both sides engaging in retaliatory measures, the toll on civilians remains a pressing issue. The need for a sustainable ceasefire and the protection of innocent lives underscores the urgency for a resolution to the crisis.
Israel’s military operations in Gaza, coupled with militant activities, have led to a protracted conflict with devastating consequences. The international community faces mounting pressure to facilitate a peaceful dialogue and address the root causes of the conflict to prevent further bloodshed.
