Israeli strike on Gaza hospital worsens medical crisis

A powerful missile strike hit the Nasser Hospital in Gaza on Sunday night. The attack destroyed the surgical ward, killing two people and injuring several others. One patient, Mohammed Jihad al Rawyda, described a terrifying moment when he saw his friend being thrown by the blast. The Israeli military stated the strike targeted Ismail Barhoum, a senior Hamas figure. They claimed he was involved in military decisions impacting Hamas operations and was using the hospital as shelter. However, hospital staff say Barhoum was a patient, not a threat. Marwan El Hamss, the hospital director, spoke about the dire state of medical care in Gaza. He reported that the hospital was already dealing with oxygen shortages after previous strikes. The latest attack has made the situation worse, damaging vital facilities and impacting patient care. The conflict in Gaza has led to over 50,000 deaths, making it the deadliest conflict between Israelis and Palestinians in over 40 years. Doctors and nurses at the hospital are frightened, fearing more attacks. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) also reported an explosive projectile hit their office in Rafah, impacting their ability to operate. Additionally, several paramedics from the Palestinian Red Crescent Society are missing after entering a newly occupied area. The United Nations is withdrawing some staff from Gaza following the deaths of its personnel in previous attacks, which they attribute to Israeli fire. As humanitarian needs grow, Israeli and U.S. media state that Israel is preparing for an extensive offensive in Gaza. Israeli officials emphasize a desire for a diplomatic solution while continuing to prepare for military actions.