The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip has intensified, with recent Israeli military actions drawing international attention. The Israeli army launched an attack on the Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, alleging it was being used by Hamas militants as a command center for planning and executing terrorist operations. This incident resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals, including Palestinian journalist Hassan Eslaih, who was receiving treatment for previous injuries sustained in an Israeli strike.
The hospital strike has sparked outrage, with Gaza's Health Ministry condemning the targeting of medical facilities, citing the illegality under the Geneva Convention. Since the conflict's escalation in October 2023, reports indicate that over 52,800 people have been killed, with a significant number of casualties being civilians.
Israel's actions are a response to a major Hamas offensive on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people and the abduction of 251 individuals into Gaza. Despite some hostages being released, many remain in captivity.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with aid organizations warning of an impending famine due to an Israeli blockade disrupting the delivery of essential supplies. Reports suggest that 470,000 people are on the brink of starvation, with malnutrition rates soaring. The blockade, coupled with the ongoing military operations, poses severe consequences for the region's already vulnerable population, threatening a humanitarian crisis of catastrophic proportions.
