Dire Crisis in Gaza: Main Hospital Encircled Amidst Ceasefire Rejection by Netanyahu
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated to a critical point, with Gaza’s main hospital, Al-Shifa, now surrounded by Israeli troops. Mohammed Abu Selmia, the director of Al-Shifa Hospital, reported that Israeli forces are targeting anyone outside or inside the hospital, severely hindering movement and medical operations. This situation has led to devastating consequences, with at least five patients dying due to the lack of electricity after the hospital’s last generator ran out of fuel. The dire conditions in the hospital, including the stoppage of medical devices, have exacerbated the crisis for patients, particularly those in intensive care.
Compounding the situation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected calls for a ceasefire, despite international pressure, including from French President Emmanuel Macron. Netanyahu’s stance is in line with his long-standing assertion that Hamas uses civilians as human shields, arguing that the responsibility for civilian harm lies with the militant group. The Israeli military maintains that its troops are engaged in combat with Hamas in the vicinity of Al-Shifa and are taking measures to prevent civilian harm. However, these claims have been contradicted by both Hamas and Al-Shifa staff.
The conflict has drawn widespread criticism from Arab and Muslim leaders, who have collectively demanded an immediate end to Israeli military operations in Gaza. They have called on the United Nations Security Council to adopt a decisive resolution to halt Israeli aggression, warning of the severe humanitarian consequences if action is not taken. The situation in Gaza, particularly at Al-Shifa Hospital, highlights the devastating impact of the conflict on civilians and raises serious concerns about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
