Israel has launched a major air strike on the last functioning hospital in Gaza City, forcing it to evacuate patients and causing widespread damage. The hospital, which treats over 1,000 patients daily, was struck early Sunday with no reported casualties but damage to critical areas including the emergency room.
The Israeli military says it targeted a command-and-control center used by Hamas, denying allegations that the hospital was being used for military purposes. However, the Palestinian Ministry of Health and international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), have condemned the strike and expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The attack has pushed hundreds of thousands of civilians into a shrinking area on the Mediterranean coast as part of Israel’s expanding “security zone” in Gaza. The Israeli military has also seized control of the Morag corridor, cutting off Rafah from the rest of Gaza.
WHO said that two missions to Al-Ahli Baptist hospital were denied by Israeli authorities, highlighting the lack of humanitarian access to medical facilities in Gaza. Hospitals across Gaza are facing shortages of medicine and equipment as health officials warn of a growing crisis.
The strike drew international condemnation including from the UK, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. The situation remains dire for those living in Gaza with reports of deadly strikes and rockets fired by Hamas, sparking fears of further escalation.
Israel is reportedly expanding its campaign in Gaza to force Hamas to free its remaining hostages, including American-Israeli Edan Alexander, who recently released a plea for help in a video. His parents have urged President Donald Trump to act on his behalf, expressing hope that the US president can bring their son home safely.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/13/world/israel-strike-gaza-city-hospital-intl/index.html