Israeli forces battle militants around another Gaza hospital as babies evacuated to Egypt

Israeli forces are engaged in an offensive against Hamas in northern Gaza, including around the Indonesian Hospital, where patients and displaced people are sheltering. There have been casualties, and tensions are high.

The World Health Organization evacuated premature babies from Shifa Hospital due to the deteriorating conditions caused by the conflict, including shortages of water, medical supplies, and fuel for generators.

There is a battle of narratives over the impact of the conflict on Gaza’s civilian population. Israel claims Hamas uses civilians as human shields, while critics argue that Israel’s actions amount to collective punishment for Palestinians.

Yes, Israel has alleged that Hamas maintained a command post under Shifa Hospital, citing tunnels and weapons found inside. Hamas has denied these allegations.

Approximately three-quarters of Gaza’s population, nearly 1.7 million people, have been displaced, with many seeking refuge in U.N.-run shelters.

According to Palestinian health authorities, over 12,200 Palestinians, including nearly 5,000 minors, have been killed in Gaza. On the Israeli side, approximately 1,200 people, mainly civilians, have been killed.

Negotiations for the release of hostages have been ongoing, involving Israel, the United States, and Qatar as a mediator with Hamas. Israel’s war Cabinet is meeting with representatives of the hostages’ families.