Shifa Hospital patients, staff and displaced leave the compound, Gaza health officials say

Health officials in Gaza received an evacuation order from the military on Saturday morning, while the military stated that it had offered safe passage to those wishing to leave. The exact reason for the exodus remains a point of contention between Palestinian officials and the Israeli military.

The telecommunications blackout in Gaza was due to the shutdown of the main power plant early in the conflict, coupled with Israel cutting off the electricity supply. This affected not only the telecommunications network but also essential infrastructure like water treatment plants, sanitation facilities, and hospitals.

The United Nations warned that Gaza’s 2.3 million people are facing critical shortages of food and water. The lack of fuel for generators, along with blocked access to food and supplies, has exacerbated the crisis. Dehydration, malnutrition, and disease outbreaks have become significant concerns among the population.

Israel had previously barred entry of fuel, citing concerns that it could be diverted by Hamas for military purposes. However, it recently agreed to allow a limited amount of fuel for communication services and a minimal quantity for humanitarian purposes, following an American request. Despite this, the provided amounts fall short of what’s required for essential humanitarian operations.

Thousands of marchers, including families of hostages, have been calling on the Israeli government to take action to secure the release of their loved ones abducted by Hamas. The government’s stance on fuel deliveries was tied to demands for the hostages’ release. Negotiations for a cease-fire or prisoner swap have been proposed but have faced challenges.

Israel has alleged that Hamas set up a command center under Shifa Hospital, which has prompted its search efforts in the facility. Israel has presented evidence of weapons caches and a tunnel entrance found inside the hospital but has faced skepticism. These allegations are part of Israel’s broader accusation that Hamas uses civilians as human shields, contributing to civilian casualties in the conflict.