Israeli Airstrike Hits Gaza Field Hospital, Resulting in Casualties
On Tuesday, an Israeli military strike at the Kuwait Specialty Field Hospital in southern Gaza resulted in the death of a security guard and left ten patients injured. This incident reflects the escalating violence in the region, coming just days after a separate Israeli attack on the Al Ahli Arab Hospital, which serves as one of the few functioning medical facilities still operating amidst ongoing hostilities.
Details of the Attack
According to Dr. Suhaib al-Hamss, the hospital’s director, the security guard was killed while attempting to safeguard the entrance of the facility. Four of the injured patients sustained serious injuries as a result of the attack. Dr. al-Hamss described the strike as powerful, indicating significant destruction within the hospital. “Everything fell over,” he stated in a phone interview.
Humanitarian Impact
The ongoing military actions in Gaza have severely affected the healthcare system. Recent reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicate that out of Gaza’s 36 hospitals, 33 have suffered damage during the conflict, narrowing down to just 21 that remain partially operational. As humanitarian aid has been obstructed for six weeks, concerns have arisen over a looming shortage of medical supplies in these facilities.
Contested Allegations
Israel alleges that Hamas utilizes healthcare facilities for military operations, a claim that Hamas has consistently denied. Dr. al-Hamss affirmed that the hospital’s location had been communicated to Israeli authorities prior to the attack through various intermediaries. He emphasized that the facility focuses solely on providing medical care and does not serve as a base for Hamas operations. “We’re not doing anything other than medicine,” he asserted.
Critical Role of the Hospital
The Kuwait Specialty Field Hospital has become a critical resource, treating approximately 3,500 patients daily amidst the collapse of Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure. Dr. al-Hamss noted, “The hospital is providing a solution to the people in light of the collapse of the health sector in Gaza,” signifying its importance during these dire times.
As the conflict continues to escalate, the humanitarian implications of military actions on medical facilities raise significant concerns. The international community watches closely as the situation develops, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution to ensure the protection of civilians and healthcare providers in conflict zones.
Patrick Kingsley contributed reporting to this article.
