ISRAEL: Israeli President Isaac Herzog refutes claims of targeting Al-Shifa, Gaza’s largest hospital, dismissing reports of energy shortages. Despite World Health Organisation (WHO) concerns about dire conditions, Herzog insists on the hospital’s operational status.
WHO initially lost contact with Al-Shifa, where patients and personnel faced outdoor fighting. Although communication resumed, dire conditions persist, with the hospital reportedly without water and electricity for three days.
Fuel shortages impacting healthcare
In response to a deadly attack by Hamas on October 7, Israel launched an offensive in the Gaza Strip, resulting in 1,200 casualties and over 200 hostages from southern Israel.
Gaza’s health ministry, run by Hamas, reports fuel shortages affecting surgery and premature baby incubators. President Herzog denies these claims, stating, “there’s electricity in Shifa, everything is operating.”
Amid calls for a ceasefire, Herzog defends Israel’s right to self-defense. Israel alleges a Hamas base beneath Al-Shifa, with Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari offering evacuation assistance for infants. Herzog emphasizes compliance with international humanitarian law, providing humanitarian pauses for civilians to relocate.
Conflict toll
The health ministry, managed by Hamas, claims over 11,000 deaths and 1.5 million displaced people in Gaza. Israel maintains its offensive’s compliance with humanitarian principles.
President Herzog reaffirms Israel’s commitment to self-defense, emphasizing operational conditions at Al-Shifa amid escalating conflict in the Gaza Strip.
Also Read: Gaza: Hospital Struggles amidst Ongoing Conflict
