Israeli Military Denies Striking Gaza’s al-Shifa Hospital Amid Rising Violence
Israel Insists al-Shifa Hospital Is Off-Limits
An Israeli military official delivered a firm message in Arabic, denying claims that Israeli forces have fired on Gaza’s al-Shifa Hospital. The officer stressed that the hospital is not a target amid ongoing clashes with Hamas fighters. He reassured civilians that anyone seeking evacuation can leave safely via the east side of the hospital compound.
Al-Shifa Hospital Staff Paint Grim Picture
These denials come after chilling reports from al-Shifa Hospital’s director, Muhammad Abu Salmiya, and Gaza Health Ministry deputy chief Dr Youssef Abu al-Reesh. In a stark interview with Al Jazeera, they revealed the hospital faces relentless artillery shelling and sniper fire targeting anyone moving inside or trying to escape.
UN Report Highlights Deadly Toll in Occupied Territories
- Since October 7, 168 Palestinians—including 46 children—have been killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank, says UN agency OCHA.
- Eight more Palestinians, including a child, were killed by Israeli settlers in East Jerusalem.
- These deaths represent 42% of all Palestinian fatalities in 2023.
- OCHA logged 233 settler attacks causing injuries and property damage.
- Incidents have doubled, with an average of seven attacks daily—up from three earlier this year.
- Almost half of these attacks were backed or accompanied by Israeli forces.
Hezbollah Steps Up Firepower Against Israel
In a televised speech, Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah announced a major “upgrade” in their operations along the Israel border. He revealed:
- An increase in the number, scale, and targets of attacks.
- First-ever launch of weaponised drones.
- Use of powerful Burkan missiles carrying 300-500kg explosives.
- The recent attack on Kiryat Shmona was retaliation for the killing of three girls and their grandmother.
Nasrallah vowed that the Hezbollah front with Israel “will remain active.”
The conflict shows no signs of cooling as violence escalates across multiple fronts in the region.
