An Israeli airstrike hit a tent camp inside a hospital in central Gaza on Sunday, resulting in the death of two Palestinians and injuring 15 others. The strike targeted one of several tents in the courtyard of Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah, where thousands of people had sought shelter after fleeing their homes due to the ongoing conflict in the region.
Journalists working from nearby tents witnessed the strike and its aftermath, with no immediate comment from the Israeli military. Tens of thousands of people have sought refuge in Gaza’s hospitals, viewing them as relatively safe from airstrikes. However, Israel has accused Hamas and other militants of operating in and around medical facilities, leading to raids on several hospitals.
The situation in Gaza’s hospitals is dire, with only a third of them partially functioning. Doctors are forced to treat patients on the floor due to a lack of beds and operate without essential medical supplies. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a high number of casualties, with over 32,000 Palestinians killed since the start of the war.
Efforts to broker a cease-fire and secure the release of hostages have been ongoing, with the United States, Qatar, and Egypt involved in negotiations. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected demands for an end to the war until Hamas’ military capabilities are destroyed. The cease-fire talks resumed in Cairo on Sunday, but there is little expectation of a breakthrough.