Al-Shifa hospital, Gaza's largest medical facility, fell victim to an Israeli strike, resulting in the death of 13 individuals.
The Gaza government confirmed the casualties in a statement, declaring, "Thirteen martyrs and dozens wounded in an Israeli strike on Al-Shifa compound today" in central Gaza City.
Al-Shifa hospital director Mohammad Abu Salmiya attributed the attack to Israeli tanks, stating, "Israeli tanks fired on Al-Shifa hospital." Eyewitness accounts from journalists on the scene reported at least seven covered bodies outside the hospital premises.
The Israeli military has maintained its silence on the incident, but tensions had escalated prior, with reports of heavy fighting near the hospital. Israel claimed to have killed dozens of militants and destroyed tunnels crucial to Hamas's military capabilities.
The Israeli army has consistently accused Hamas of exploiting hospitals, particularly Al-Shifa, for coordinating attacks against them and as hideouts for their commanders. Hamas authorities and doctors vehemently deny these allegations.
Mohammed Zaqout, director-general of Gaza hospitals, described a dire situation, highlighting the lack of essential resources. "We are unable to provide services to the wounded, and the hospitals are continuously bombed by Israel," he lamented. Tens of thousands of displaced individuals seeking refuge in hospitals face the imminent threat of aerial bombardment and artillery fire.
The ongoing conflict, sparked by Hamas's assault on October 7, has led to a devastating Israeli offensive. Israel, vowing to dismantle Hamas, unleashed a combination of aerial bombings and ground campaigns on Gaza in response. The Gaza health ministry reports a grim toll of over 10,800 deaths, predominantly civilians, with a significant number being children.
Abu Mohammad, a displaced resident seeking shelter in Al-Shifa hospital, expressed desperation: "There is no safe place left. The army hit Al-Shifa. I don't know what to do." Witnesses reported tanks surrounding other hospitals in Gaza City amid the intensifying conflict, forcing hundreds of thousands to flee southwards.
AFPTV footage captured a dawn fireball and smoke, signaling the grim reality of the escalating violence. Early Friday sounds of apparent gunfire and explosions could be heard.
