Israel intensified its strikes across Gaza on Sunday, killing at least 21 people, including children, and damaging a hospital in the north. The attacks came as Israel vowed to expand its security presence in the small coastal strip.
The predawn strike on Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City damaged the emergency room, pharmacy, and surrounding buildings, affecting over 100 patients and dozens of staff. At least one patient died during evacuation due to a lack of urgent care, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
Palm Sunday marked the start of Holy Week, but worshipers in Gaza City found little respite from the violence. Al-Ahli Hospital is run by the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem and was condemned as an attack on civilians.
The attacks are part of Israel’s military efforts to target militant groups in Gaza. The military claimed to have struck over 90 targets, including command and control centers and tunnels. However, the extent of the damage remains unclear.
Israel has been besieging hospitals, which have special protection under international law, and accusing Hamas of using them as cover for its fighters. Last month, Israel struck a hospital in Khan Younis, killing two people and causing a large fire.
The conflict began when Hamas-led militants killed 1,200 people during an attack on southern Israel in October 2023. Israel’s military has vowed to pressure Hamas to release remaining hostages and accept new ceasefire terms. The war has resulted in over 50,000 Palestinian deaths, with more than half being women and children.
A missile launched from Yemen was intercepted by Israel’s military, but there were no reports of casualties or damage. The Iranian-backed Houthi rebels continue to target Israel as part of their solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza.
Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/04/13/israel-strikes-gaza-palm-sunday-00288525