Gaza City is reeling from a devastating bombing that targeted Al Ahli al Arabi hospital, resulting in the deaths of at least 500 people, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. Palestinian officials have accused Israel of carrying out the attack, but Israel has pointed the finger at the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) group, a claim vehemently denied by the militant organisation.
In the wake of the hospital bombing, protests have erupted in several major cities, reflecting the widespread anger and grief over the tragic incident. In the West Bank, Palestinians took to the streets, expressing their discontent with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. Security forces attempted to disperse the crowds with tear gas and stun grenades.
Outside the US embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, enraged protesters set a large fire as a demonstration against the hospital blast. Another group gathered outside the French embassy, reportedly hurling rocks at the building. Lebanon’s Hezbollah militant group called on Muslims and Arabs to join the protests, urging them to “express intense anger” against the attack.
In Libya, hundreds of people gathered in Tripoli and other cities, brandishing Palestinian flags and chanting slogans in support of Gazans. Similar protests materialised outside the British and French embassies in Tehran, Iran. The situation remains volatile as tensions escalate.
The United States has issued a travel warning to its citizens, advising against traveling to Lebanon due to the unpredictable security situation. The US State Department cited terrorism, civil unrest, armed conflict, crime, kidnapping, and limited embassy support as reasons for the cautionary advisory.
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby provided an update on President Biden’s itinerary upon landing in Tel Aviv. Biden will have a series of meetings with Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu and the Israeli war cabinet. He will also meet with Israeli first responders and families affected by the recent violence. Biden plans to ask “tough questions” as a friend of Israel but will seek clarity and understanding on the ongoing conflict.
Biden’s scheduled visit to Amman, Jordan, to meet with Arab leaders was canceled due to the hospital blast. However, he intends to engage in discussions with both President Abbas and President Sisi during his return flight, indicating his commitment to finding a resolution and bringing stability to the region.
