In brief
Israeli airstrikes surrounding Kamal Adwan Hospital resulted in numerous casualties and panic as patients and staff were ordered to evacuate amidst ongoing violence. Medical supplies are critically low, raising concerns for the remaining wounded.
The situation around Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza has escalated dramatically after Israeli airstrikes and heavy ground gunfire early Friday morning. The assault has reportedly resulted in scores of casualties, according to Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, the hospital’s director. He noted that while the initial airstrikes did not harm anyone in the facility, subsequent gunfire led to multiple fatalities among patients and staff.Dr. Safiya described the aftermath with bodies lining the streets surrounding the hospital, expressing alarm at the severe conditions. He indicated that four medical personnel were among the deceased and highlighted the critical shortages of medical supplies, complicating the already dire situation.The World Health Organization's representative for the Palestinian territories, Dr. Rik Peeperkorn, corroborated reports of intense bombing and confirmed that Israeli forces had ordered evacuations, causing terror among the hospital's occupants. This demand to exit the premises came shortly before direct assaults began, further complicating rescue efforts.As the fighting continues, the Israeli military has not issued any formal comment regarding the incident at the hospital. The Health Ministry in Gaza, which operates under Hamas control, released Dr. Safiya's statement, indicating a breakdown in healthcare amidst escalating violence. The scenario remains fluid, with independent verification of casualty figures and accounts still unavailable.
