RAFAH: Israeli forces launched a raid on the main hospital in southern Gaza on Thursday, shortly after an Israeli strike resulted in the death of a patient and injuries to six others within the facility. The Israeli army stated that the operation was aimed at locating the remains of hostages allegedly held by Palestinian resistance group Hamas.
The incursion occurred following a previous attempt by the Israeli military to evacuate thousands of displaced Palestinian civilians who had sought refuge at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis. This hospital has been a focal point of Israel’s offensive against Hamas in recent weeks.
According to Israeli military spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the operation was based on “credible intelligence” suggesting the presence of hostages within the hospital premises. Hagari emphasized that the operation was intended to be “precise and limited,” with no intention to forcibly remove medical staff or patients.
The raid at the hospital comes amidst heightened tensions between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah, with both sides escalating attacks following a deadly exchange the day before.
