A tragic incident in Gaza City resulted in the death of over 500 people after a bombing at the Al Ahli al Arabi hospital. The Palestinian Health Ministry announced this grave toll, marking it as one of the most devastating single incidents in recent times.
The origins of the attack have been the subject of contention. Palestinian authorities accused Israel of being behind the bombing. However, Israel refutes this claim, pointing to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) group as the culprits. PIJ denies these allegations.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) provided their account, suggesting that the explosion was the result of a misfired Palestinian rocket intended for Israel. They stated that after a thorough review, it was evident the IDF wasn’t involved in this incident. The IDF further emphasized that the hospital’s damage was due to a malfunctioned rocket from the Islamic Jihad group.
The situation remains tense, especially in light of recent conflicts. In response to the explosion, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas declared a three-day mourning period. Additionally, a scheduled meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden was canceled.
Al Shifa, Gaza City’s primary hospital, struggled to manage the surge of around 350 casualties from this bombing while already grappling with injuries from other incidents, as stated by its director, Mohammed Abu Selmia.
In a strongly worded statement, Hamas labeled the incident as a “crime of genocide” and held Israel responsible. They also criticized the support Israel receives from Western nations.
The incident has garnered international attention and condemnation. Several countries and organizations, including Turkey, Iran, Jordan, Qatar, and the World Health Organisation, have expressed their concern.
On the streets, people’s reactions have been fervent. Demonstrations broke out in cities like Ramallah and Hebron. Footage captured showed intense confrontations between protesters and Palestinian security forces.
If these claims about the bombing are verified, it would mark the deadliest Israeli air strike since 2008.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, expressed his grief over the incident, mentioning that the hospital is associated with the Anglican church. He urged prayers for the affected.
A recent report added that this isn’t the hospital’s first encounter with violence. On October 14, the hospital faced a strike, injuring four staff members.
Adding to the region’s woes, the UN agency for Palestine (UNWRA) stated that an additional six deaths occurred after one of its schools in Gaza was shelled.
