Israel’s military has launched a targeted operation within specific areas of Gaza’s al-Shifa hospital, citing intelligence that suggests senior Hamas operatives are using the facility to coordinate attacks against Israel.
An IDF spokesperson stated early Monday that the operation is in response to credible intelligence requiring immediate action, emphasizing that the goal is to combat Hamas militants while minimizing harm to civilians.
“We are aware of senior Hamas terrorists regrouping inside the al-Shifa hospital and using it as a command center for attacks against Israel,” said the IDF spokesperson.
The operation is being conducted with precision and care to reduce civilian casualties. The IDF has deployed Arabic speakers and medical personnel to assist patients within the hospital compound and is offering humanitarian aid to civilians.
Although patients and medical staff are not obligated to evacuate the hospital, a pathway is available for civilians who wish to leave,” the spokesperson noted. He also urged Hamas militants to surrender, stressing that medical facilities should not be used for terrorist activities.
“Exploiting medical facilities for terror purposes is unacceptable. Hamas must be held accountable,” concluded the spokesperson in a brief video message posted by the IDF.
Meanwhile, the Hamas-controlled Health Ministry in Gaza issued a statement regarding the ongoing Israeli operation, expressing concern for the safety of medical staff, patients, and displaced individuals inside the al-Shifa Medical Complex, as reported by Al Jazeera.
The statement condemned the Israeli occupation for what it termed as a violation of international humanitarian law. It accused Israel of using fabricated narratives to justify the operation at the al-Shifa Medical Complex.
Footage verified by Al Jazeera’s Sanad verification unit showed numerous Palestinians leaving Gaza’s al-Shifa Hospital after Israeli forces initiated the operation in the area.
Israeli forces reportedly fired shots inside the medical complex in northern Gaza City, resulting in casualties. Additionally, a fire broke out in a surgical building at the al-Shifa Hospital due to Israeli airstrikes.
The Israeli military is using loudspeakers to instruct everyone to evacuate the hospital, and gunfire has been reported inside the complex, leading to further casualties, according to Al Jazeera.
