Al Shifa Hospital Raided for Over a Week
The Israeli army completed its withdrawal from Gaza’s Al Shifa Hospital after a week-long operation, as reported by a Palestinian security source. The withdrawal was marked by the detonation of various facilities within the complex, including power generators, oxygen pumps, and radiology equipment.
Destruction of Underground Tunnels
Israeli forces claimed to have destroyed an underground network of tunnels and tunnel shafts beneath the hospital, alleging their use as a Hamas hideout. The withdrawal coincided with the first day of a temporary humanitarian cease-fire between Hamas and Israel, anticipated to last for four days.
Impact on Hospital Operations
Approximately 250 patients and staff remained at Al Shifa Hospital, which is now non-operational due to critical shortages of power, water, and medical supplies, as highlighted in a UN report on Thursday. The aftermath of the raid leaves the hospital in a state of severe distress, impacting its ability to provide essential medical services.