Israeli army re-enters Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis after short withdrawal

The Israeli army has been accused by the Gaza-based Palestinian health ministry of converting Nasser Hospital into a military barracks, after reportedly withdrawing troops from the facility. The hospital, which housed over 120 wounded people and patients, was left without essential supplies during the siege. The health ministry is calling on the World Health Organization to pressure Israel to end the militarization of hospitals and provide humanitarian and medical needs.

The Palestinian health ministry has stated that the Israeli army sent four armoured personnel carriers into Nasser Hospital shortly after withdrawing troops, prompting concerns about the militarization of the facility. Ashraf al-Qedra, the ministry’s spokesman, highlighted the dire conditions at the hospital, emphasizing the lack of electricity, water, food, oxygen, and proper medical care for critical cases during the siege.

Israel’s Channel 13 news initially reported that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) had ended their operation at the hospital, but the Palestinian health ministry’s statement raises questions about the current status of the facility. The ministry is urging the World Health Organization to intervene and ensure that hospitals are not militarized, and that all humanitarian and medical needs are met.

According to Palestinian security sources, the hospital had been under siege and attacks by the Israeli army forces, leading to concerns about the safety and well-being of the patients and medical teams inside. The ministry’s call for intervention from the World Health Organization underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for international pressure to address the unfolding crisis.

The Israeli army’s actions at Nasser Hospital have sparked outrage and concern, with the Palestinian health ministry calling for an end to the militarization of hospitals and the provision of essential humanitarian and medical needs for patients and medical teams. The developments at the hospital highlight the ongoing tensions and humanitarian challenges in the region, as well as the need for international intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected.