The IDF is conducting a “targeted” operation at Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City, according to the military. The operation is aimed at Hamas in a specified area of the hospital based on intelligence information and operational necessity. This development follows the White House’s statement that it had information about the use of tunnels beneath hospitals, including Al-Shifa, by Hamas and other militants to hide and keep hostages. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby mentioned multiple intelligence sources for this information, and Hamas has since issued a statement denying the accusation.
The Israeli military alleges that Hamas and other militants in Gaza use hospitals, including Al-Shifa, and tunnels beneath them to hide and keep hostages. The IDF is conducting a “targeted” operation at Al-Shifa hospital, accusing Hamas of operating a command center under the site, a claim denied by doctors and the militant group. Trapped individuals inside Al-Shifa are reportedly digging a mass grave due to the challenges of removing decomposing bodies. President Biden has emphasized the need to protect the hospital amid concerns for patients, including premature babies, facing shortages of fuel, water, and food.
In Washington, D.C., tens of thousands rallied on the National Mall to express strong support for Israel and condemn antisemitism. Israeli lawmakers have called for Western countries to accept civilians from Gaza as refugees, heightening Palestinian fears of forced displacement.
The conflict has resulted in over 1.6 million displaced people in Gaza, with health officials reporting more than 11,200 casualties. Israel claims that 1,200 people were killed in the Hamas terrorist attack on October 7, and 239 individuals remain held hostage in Gaza.
