Israeli Airstrike Hits Gaza Hospital, Killing Six and Injuring 20

Amid the ongoing tension and conflict in the Gaza Strip, Israeli airstrikes on Thursday hit the Nasser Hospital in the city of Khan Yunis, southern Gaza, leaving six people dead and approximately 20 others injured. This incident has been confirmed by Gaza’s Civil Defense Department and health officials. Among those killed was a surgeon working at the hospital. Following the strikes, rescue teams launched an operation to recover the victims from the debris. According to reports, the surgery department of the Nasser Medical Complex was targeted. Located in Khan Yunis, this hospital is one of the few remaining medical facilities in southern Gaza that continues to provide healthcare services despite the ongoing war. The strikes caused extensive damage to parts of the hospital building; debris collapsed, roofs were damaged, and electrical wires were left hanging. Mahmoud Basal, a spokesperson for the Gaza Civil Defense Department, stated that six bodies were recovered following the attack, and about 20 injured individuals were transported for medical treatment. Medical records have identified one of the deceased as a surgeon, Dr. Ramez Abu Shayra. Local health officials noted that the death of a medical professional makes this incident particularly grave. In the aftermath, chaos erupted inside the hospital among patients, those who had sought shelter there, and medical staff. Rescue teams navigated through damaged corridors to evacuate people, moving many to safety amidst the wreckage. Relief teams assessed the affected areas and carried out rescue operations. According to media reports, the airstrike hit the surgery department located in the Al-Yassin building of the hospital complex, causing significant damage to the second floor. Images and videos from the site show scattered debris, damaged furniture, and electrical wires hanging down. Signs of damage are also visible in the hospital corridors. Nasser Hospital is a vital institution for the health sector in Gaza. The ongoing conflict has long affected many staff members and medical facilities in the region, raising growing concerns regarding the provision of medical treatment and emergency services. The Israeli military has offered a different explanation for the attacks, claiming that it targeted Hamas operatives—including a senior figure—present within the hospital. The Israeli military alleges that Hamas was using the hospital complex for military operations, a command center, storage, and surveillance activities. However, these claims by Israel have not been independently verified. Reuters also stated in its report that it could not independently confirm the Israeli military’s assertions. Meanwhile, a Hamas spokesperson has condemned the attacks, labeling them a war crime. Both sides have presented conflicting accounts of the incident.