JNS: A devastating explosion at Al-Ahli Arabi Baptist Hospital in Gaza has left over 100 people dead, with at least 500 believed to have perished in the tragic incident that unfolded on Tuesday.
According to reports from Gaza’s health ministry, the catastrophic blast resulted from an airstrike, which they allege was carried out by Israel. In a conflicting account, the Israeli military has attributed the incident to the Islamic Jihad organization, describing it as a “failed shooting” attempt directed towards Israel, as reported by Xinhua.
A doctor who was present at the hospital during the explosion described a scene of utter devastation. The hospital, which had been sheltering approximately 4,000 displaced individuals seeking refuge, bore the brunt of the catastrophic event.
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have vehemently denied any involvement in the incident, with an IDF statement posted on X stating, “Following an analysis by the IDF’s operational systems, a barrage of rockets was launched toward Israel, which passed in the vicinity of the hospital when it was hit.”
IDF further asserted that the Islamic Jihad terrorist organization was responsible for the blast, citing intelligence information from multiple sources.
In response to the tragedy, U.S. President Joe Biden expressed his outrage and deep sadness. He disclosed that he had already engaged in discussions with King Abdullah II of Jordan and Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel. Biden has directed his national security team to gather more information about the incident, emphasizing the United States’ commitment to the protection of civilian lives during conflicts.
French President Emmanuel Macron strongly condemned the attack, asserting that nothing could justify striking a hospital or targeting civilians. He conveyed France’s condolences to the Palestinian victims and called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his horror at the loss of life and emphasized the imperative of protecting innocent civilians and upholding international law. Trudeau called for a comprehensive inquiry into the incident and demanded accountability.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Chief of the World Health Organization (WHO), also condemned the attack on Al Ahli Arab Hospital in north Gaza. Early reports indicated a high toll of casualties, and Tedros called for the immediate protection of civilians and healthcare facilities, urging a reversal of evacuation orders.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres added his voice to the global condemnation, expressing his horror at the loss of hundreds of civilian lives due to the strike on the hospital. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic event.
As investigations into this devastating incident continue, the international community remains united in its call for accountability and the protection of civilian lives during conflicts.
