Israeli Forces Launch Operation Near Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza
Israeli forces conducted an operation in and around Al-Shifa Hospital, the largest medical facility in the Gaza Strip. Witnesses reported airstrikes and tanks near the hospital, which was crowded with patients and displaced people.
Growing Concern Over Israeli Ground Invasion
The predawn raid occurred amidst increasing worries about a potential Israeli ground invasion of Rafah, Gaza’s southernmost city. International mediators and envoys were preparing to meet in Qatar to revive stalled truce talks.
High-Level Meeting Expected
A meeting involving Israel’s Mossad chief David Barnea, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, and Egyptian officials was anticipated to take place on Monday. The talks aimed to address the escalating situation in the region.
A man stands surrounded by the bodies of Palestinians killed in Israeli bombardment at the morgue of Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, northern Gaza Strip on March 15, 2024.
Evacuation Orders Issued
The Israeli military instructed Gazans to evacuate immediately from Al-Shifa in northern Gaza City, citing intelligence indicating the presence of senior Hamas terrorists in the hospital. Arabic-language leaflets were dropped with evacuation instructions and warnings of the combat zone.
Condemnation and Casualties
Gaza’s Hamas-run Health Ministry reported numerous casualties near the hospital, with residents unable to receive aid due to ongoing gunfire and shelling. The Hamas government denounced the military action as a war crime.
Engagement with Terrorists
The Israeli army and security services stated that terrorist fire was directed at them from hospital buildings, prompting engagement with the assailants. Efforts were made to minimize harm to patients, civilians, and medical staff during the operation.
Humanitarian Crisis and International Response
The conflict in Gaza has led to severe shortages of essential supplies, with the territory facing a potential famine. International efforts, including aid drops and maritime relief missions, have been initiated to address the humanitarian crisis.
Fears of Ground Invasion and Civilian Safety
Concerns have been raised about a possible ground invasion in Rafah, with fears of civilian casualties and displacement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated the goal of eliminating Hamas while ensuring the safety of civilians in the region.
