According to the Hamas-run health ministry, all three public hospitals located in northern Gaza have been rendered inoperable as Israel intensifies its military offensive to reclaim strategic areas within the territory. This alarming development highlights the severe humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region, with the health ministry reporting that the last functioning hospital, the Indonesian hospital in Beit Lahia, is currently besieged by Israeli forces.
On Sunday, the health ministry stated that the Indonesian hospital is facing heavy fire, which has impeded the arrival of critical patients, medical staff, and essential supplies. This siege has effectively cut off access to medical care for those in dire need, exacerbating the already dire situation for residents in northern Gaza. The Indonesian hospital was the final facility still operational in the area, following the destruction of both Beit Hanoun Hospital and Kamal Adwan Hospital.
The escalation of hostilities is marked by Israel's recent announcement of Operation Gideon's Chariot, which represents the deadliest wave of airstrikes in Gaza in several months. As the situation deteriorates, the health ministry's reports underscore the urgent need for humanitarian intervention and support, as hospitals are crucial for treating the injured and providing necessary health services.
In a related development, Hamas has indicated a willingness to negotiate the release of nine hostages. A Palestinian official informed the BBC that Hamas is offering to release these hostages in exchange for a 60-day truce and the release of Palestinian prisoners. These negotiations, which were discussed on Saturday, reflect ongoing efforts to seek a diplomatic resolution amidst escalating violence.
The health ministry's statement on Sunday underscores the gravity of the situation: "After the destruction of Beit Hanoun Hospital and Kamal Adwan Hospital, and the Indonesian Hospital being put out of service, all public hospitals in the northern Gaza Strip are now out of service." This declaration raises significant concerns regarding the health and safety of the civilian population caught in the crossfire of the conflict.
The closure of all public hospitals in northern Gaza amid ongoing military operations poses an urgent humanitarian crisis. As the conflict continues, the international community must respond to the dire needs of those affected, advocating for peace and stability in the region.
