Chaos Unleashed in Southern Gaza’s Main Hospital
Five patients in intensive care died after their oxygen was cut off in southern Gaza’s main hospital that was stormed by Israeli troops, causing chaos for hundreds of staff and wounded inside, health officials said on Friday.
Search for Abducted Hostages Triggers Raid
Troops were searching the complex where the military said it believes the remains of hostages abducted by Hamas might be located. The raid came after troops had besieged Nasser Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis for nearly a week, with staff, patients, and others inside struggling under heavy fire and dwindling supplies, including food and water.
Israeli Reactions to U.S. Vision for After the War
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pushed back against the U.S. vision for after the war, particularly its calls for the creation of a Palestinian state. Netanyahu stated that Israel will not accept “international dictates regarding a permanent settlement with the Palestinians” and cautioned against recognizing a Palestinian state, as it would give a “reward to terrorism.”
Stalled Cease-fire Negotiations and Continued Offensives
Negotiations over a cease-fire in Gaza appear to have stalled, while Israeli airstrikes on Rafah have killed at least 12 people, including nine members of the same family. Israeli forces continue to storm hospitals in Gaza, claiming they are being used for military purposes.
International Law Violations
International law prohibits the targeting of medical facilities, even if they are used for military purposes. The U.N. Human Rights Office stated that Israel must take precautions and follow principles of proportionality.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The war between Israel and Hamas has resulted in a worsening humanitarian catastrophe, with thousands of Palestinians killed or wounded, a significant portion of the population displaced, and severe food shortages. Large areas in northern Gaza have been completely destroyed.
Remaining Hostages and Demands
Hamas says it will not release all the remaining captives until Israel ends its offensive, withdraws, and frees Palestinian prisoners. Netanyahu has rejected these demands and plans to expand the offensive into Rafah.