Israel Discovers Hamas Military Command Center in Gaza’s Main Hospital
Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claim to have uncovered an alleged Hamas military command center within the premises of Al-Shifa Medical Complex, the largest hospital in Gaza. The IDF spokesman revealed that evidence gathered during a raid on Wednesday provides undeniable proof that Hamas operated a military headquarters in the hospital. However, video footage and photos released by the army only depicted some weapons and ammunition, offering limited evidence to support Israel’s claims.
The photos released by the IDF showcased rifles, cartridges, vests, uniforms, and a green headband believed to belong to Hamas’s military wing. Additionally, a video posted by the IDF spokesperson showcased items found in the hospital’s MRI unit, including what was described as military equipment, as well as a laptop allegedly containing incriminating evidence. The video also displayed damage to the hospital building, including a completely shattered door.
In response to these allegations, Hamas rejected the Israeli army’s assertion, labelling it a blatant lie aimed at justifying the destruction of the healthcare sector in Gaza. According to Mohammed Abu Selmeia, the hospital director, Israeli forces withdrew from Al-Shifa Complex on Wednesday evening, approximately 16 hours after their entrance. However, tanks and troops remain positioned in close proximity to the hospital.
Earlier, Abu Selmeia reported that numerous Palestinian employees were detained when Israeli forces entered the hospital in what they deemed to be a targeted and precise operation against Hamas. Despite calls for a ceasefire from international humanitarian organizations and a new proposal by Qatar for the release of women and children hostages in exchange for Palestinian women and children prisoners held in Israel, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the country’s forces might escalate the conflict in the Gaza Strip by expanding their operations beyond the northern part.
Furthermore, approximately 500 relatives of Israeli hostages continued their march from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem for a second day. At the same time, Sara Netanyahu, the prime minister’s wife, called for the immediate release of hostages held in Gaza and requested a prompt visit by the Red Cross.
The Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Majed bin Mohammad Al Ansari, expressed their country’s efforts to mediate the hostage release. However, they acknowledged that Israel’s continued bombing in the Gaza Strip complicates the rescue mission.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza has resulted in an all-out attack on Gaza, with Israel imposing a siege on the area as retaliation for Hamas attacks on southern Israel on October 7. These attacks by Hamas militants led to the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the capture of over 200 hostages. This protracted conflict has tragically claimed the lives of more than 11,500 Palestinians in Gaza.
As the situation unfolds, both sides continue to present their perspectives, with Israel providing evidence of a military command center within the hospital while Hamas denies these accusations, emphasizing the resilience of their healthcare sector amidst the ongoing conflict.
