The impact of Israel’s raid on Gaza’s main hospital

The recent raid on Gaza’s main hospital by the Israeli military has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of the patients and staff. The Israeli military claims that the raid was a targeted operation against Hamas, but the United Nations and the World Health Organization have expressed their appallment at the situation. The raid has resulted in the complete control of the hospital by Israeli troops, with tanks and commandos entering the complex during the night. Soldiers have been questioning both staff and patients, and have asked all men between the ages of 16 and 40 to leave the hospital buildings. While the IDF claims that the raid is necessary based on intelligence information, there is no evidence provided to support this claim. The raid has also sparked controversy regarding the presence of Hamas infrastructure underneath the hospital, with the US backing Israeli claims. However, doctors inside the hospital have denied these claims, asserting that there are only civilians in the hospital and no signs of Hamas presence or weaponry. The dire conditions inside the hospital, including a lack of power, oxygen, and water, have resulted in the inability to carry out essential surgeries and the deaths of premature babies. Despite the IDF’s provision of incubators, baby food, and medical supplies, the situation remains critical. The international community, including the ICRC, the UN, and multiple governments, needs to take immediate action to ensure the protection and well-being of the patients, staff, and civilians affected by this raid.