Palestinian authorities reported that a series of Israeli airstrikes resulted in the deaths of at least 29 individuals, including four medical workers, in the vicinity of one of the last operational hospitals in northern Gaza. Dr. Hussam Abu Safia, the hospital’s director, described the conditions at Kamal Adwan hospital as “catastrophic.” In the casualty report obtained, there were also five women and five children among the deceased.
Kamal Adwan Hospital, situated in Beit Lahiya, is one of the few medical facilities still partially functioning in the northern Gaza Strip, an area that has been virtually cut off from humanitarian aid for two months due to ongoing Israeli military operations. The Israeli military refuted claims that its forces struck the hospital, insisting that they have been working with international organizations to relocate patients and medical personnel. An Indonesian medical unit, which had been providing assistance at the facility, reported being forced to evacuate on foot after Israeli soldiers surrounded the area.
Moreover, Dr. Rik Peeperkorn, representing the World Health Organization in the Palestinian territories, noted that an Israeli tank reportedly approached the hospital early Friday morning. Although no formal evacuation order was given, a sense of panic ensued, prompting patients and staff to attempt to escape, which attracted gunfire from the Israeli Defense Forces. The hospital has endured multiple strikes since the commencement of the intensive military action against Hamas in northern Gaza, with claims from Israeli forces that militants have taken refuge within hospital grounds—assertions that hospital officials have vehemently denied.
In a separate development, Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister has once again emphasized the kingdom’s stance calling for an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Prince Faisal bin Farhan criticized Israel for operating with “impunity” in its military actions against Hamas. He emphasized that a lasting resolution must include a two-state solution, with East Jerusalem designated as the capital for Palestinians.
Following his remarks, Prince Turki al-Faisal, a prominent figure in the Saudi royal family and former intelligence chief, condemned Israel’s actions, labeling the state as “apartheid, colonial, and genocidal.” He asserted that there must be global recognition of these issues to hold accountable those charged by the International Criminal Court. Israeli officials have not responded to Prince Turki’s statements at this moment.
The discussions took place at the International Institute for Security Studies’ Manama Dialogue in Bahrain, highlighting the regional implications and tensions stirred by ongoing conflicts. The situation continues to escalate, drawing attention from various nations and further complicating the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.
