Amid stalled ceasefire negotiations and a rising civilian death toll, Gaza’s remaining hospitals are facing increased attacks, severely impacting the region’s already strained healthcare system. Recent reports detail a dire situation where medical facilities, struggling to cope with the influx of casualties, are themselves becoming targets.
Ceasefire Stalls, Attacks Intensify
The latest ceasefire proposal faced a significant setback as Hamas rejected a key demand calling for the group to disarm, with a senior official stating that the demand crossed “a million red lines.” This rejection has dimmed hopes for a swift resolution to the conflict, leading to continued Israeli attacks across Gaza.
Rising Casualties
The Gaza Health Ministry reports over 50,983 confirmed Palestinian deaths and 116,274 wounded since the start of the war. Other sources put the death toll even higher, exceeding 61,700, including those presumed dead under rubble. Among the recent incidents, Israeli forces reportedly bombed a tent housing displaced people in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza, resulting in multiple fatalities. Another attack targeted a tent housing displaced Palestinians in al-Mawasi, Khan Younis, causing further casualties.
Attacks on Hospitals
On Tuesday, an Israeli airstrike hit the northern gate of the Kuwaiti Field Hospital in the Gaza Strip, killing a medic and wounding 10 others. Earlier, Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital, described as the last functioning hospital in Gaza City, sustained damage in an Israeli airstrike. The IDF stated the hospital contained a “command and control center used by Hamas.” One child, previously injured, reportedly died due to the evacuation following the strike.
International Condemnation
The attacks on hospitals and civilian infrastructure have drawn widespread condemnation from international organizations, who are calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and protection of medical facilities and personnel. The situation is further exacerbated by restricted access to Gaza, hindering the delivery of essential medical supplies and humanitarian aid.
Abuse Allegations
Adding to the distress, reports have emerged regarding the treatment of Palestinians released from Israeli custody, with some claiming to have suffered abuse while detained. These allegations are raising concerns about human rights violations and are being investigated by relevant organizations.
Humanitarian Crisis Worsens
As ceasefire talks remain deadlocked and attacks intensify, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen. The international community faces mounting pressure to find a solution that ensures the protection of civilians, respects international law, and addresses the underlying causes of the conflict.