Israeli Airstrike Hits Gaza City’s Last Functional Hospital as Conflict Intensifies | CNN

An air strike in Gaza City recently hit the Al-Ahli Baptist hospital, one of the last hospitals still functioning in the area. This strike is part of a larger military operation by Israel, which has intensified its presence in Gaza. Fortunately, no immediate casualties were reported from the air strike itself, but evacuation efforts were chaotic. A boy died during the rush to move patients, highlighting the dangers residents face.

According to the Anglican church in Jerusalem, which manages the hospital, they received just a short warning before the attack, leaving them scrambling to get everyone to safety. The damage to the hospital was significant, with parts of the emergency room and reception area badly affected. The military claims they targeted a control center used by Hamas but offered no evidence to back this up. Hamas denies using the hospital for military purposes.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are extending their operations into Gaza, which is forcing many civilians into tighter spaces along the coast. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the military’s main aim is to increase pressure on Hamas, emphasizing that the IDF’s actions will intensify if hostages are not released.

Around 400,000 people have been displaced in the last few weeks due to the ongoing conflict. Hospitals have often served as shelters, but the situation is worsening. Mohammed Abu Naser, who was a patient at Al-Ahli during the strike, expressed deep concern about the lack of medical care. He said they were desperate for treatment and might have to travel abroad for help.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health announced that the hospital will temporarily close and directed patients to other facilities, which are already struggling to accommodate the increasing number of individuals in need. The ongoing strikes have made it increasingly difficult for the World Health Organization (WHO) to deliver necessary supplies, exacerbating the healthcare crisis.

Dr. Samer Attar, a physician working at Al-Ahli, described the situation as dire. Patients are severely injured and overwhelmed, not just physically but mentally as well. The hospital typically manages up to 1,000 patients daily, but with the ongoing strikes and lack of resources, its future is uncertain.

As history shows, the current situation echoes the challenges Gaza faced in previous conflicts. In the past, major hospitals like Al-Shifa also struggled under similar pressure, highlighting a troubling pattern in the region. Access to medical care remains a critical issue amid the chaos.

Alexandra, an American-Israeli hostage, recently made an emotional plea in a video released by Hamas for help in escaping. Videos like these reflect the human impact of the ongoing turmoil and have drawn significant attention on social media, raising awareness and concern for those trapped.

The conflict continues to escalate. Each attack not only adds to the physical destruction but takes a toll on the mental health of the community. "Desperation fills the air," Dr. Attar said, noting that people are fatigued and hungry, seeking shelter and safety in the darkest of times.

For more information on the developing situation, you can visit the WHO here.

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