Israeli forces conducted a night raid on Gaza’s largest hospital, al-Shifa, citing intelligence indicating the presence of senior Hamas leaders inside the compound. The operation triggered gun battles, with the Israeli military and Hamas exchanging fire. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated they were targeting Hamas militants who were allegedly using the hospital’s complex for military operations. Palestinian health authorities reported multiple casualties and accused Israel of endangering lives, including those of patients and medical staff. The IDF claimed to have taken precautions to minimize harm to non-combatants.

This is not the first time al-Shifa hospital has been the focus of Israeli military action; a similar raid was carried out in November, drawing international criticism. The IDF contends that the hospital’s infrastructure is being exploited by Hamas to shield fighters and command centers, including underground tunnels. Gaza’s health ministry highlighted the dire situation within the hospital, where approximately 30,000 people, including the wounded and displaced, were reportedly caught in the crossfire.

In response to the operation, Israel faced increased international pressure to halt its offensive actions in Gaza and to allow humanitarian aid into the region. Despite efforts to negotiate a ceasefire, including talks on securing the release of captives and potentially pausing hostilities for six weeks, the conflict continues. The IDF has indicated intentions to expand its operations into the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

The raid at al-Shifa hospital has further escalated tensions in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, resulting in significant casualties, displacement, and a humanitarian crisis across Gaza. The United Nations has reported that a quarter of Gaza’s population faces starvation, with thousands killed and injured since the conflict’s onset. Negotiations for a ceasefire and the conditions for peace remain under discussion by international mediators.