Gaza Hospital Attack Kills 144 Palestinians as Israel Intensifies Strikes

At least 144 Palestinians were killed in the past 24 hours as Israeli forces launched more than 170 airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, escalating what has become one of the most devastating military operations in the region’s recent history. The strikes, carried out under Operation Gideon Chariots, targeted densely populated civilian areas and critical infrastructure, including hospitals.

One of the most significant assaults struck Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, damaging key medical wards and triggering a mass evacuation of patients. The Gaza Health Ministry confirmed that the facility was overwhelmed with casualties, including women and children, as emergency services struggled to operate under siege conditions.

Relentless Bombardment of Civilian Zones

The Israeli military confirmed conducting more than 170 air raids in a single day, with targets including Jabaliya refugee camp, Rafah, and central Gaza districts. The stated objective is to dismantle Hamas military installations. However, Palestinian officials report widespread destruction of homes, schools, and healthcare centers, disputing Israeli claims that all strikes were aimed at militant targets.

Since the start of the renewed conflict in October 2023, Israel has conducted over 9,800 airstrikes across Gaza, according to Palestinian monitoring groups and international observers.

Medical System Collapsing

The strike on Nasser Hospital further strained Gaza’s failing healthcare system. Medical professionals reported severe shortages of surgical supplies, antibiotics, and electricity. “We are on the edge of collapse,” said one emergency doctor. “Even minor wounds could now be fatal due to lack of care.”

International organizations, including Médecins Sans Frontières and the World Health Organization, have called for an immediate ceasefire to allow safe access for humanitarian aid and the evacuation of critically injured civilians.

Humanitarian Breakdown and International Outcry

More than 80% of Gaza’s population is now internally displaced, with basic necessities like food, clean water, and fuel running dangerously low. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reports that aid deliveries have been delayed or denied at border crossings.

Global reactions have been swift. Pakistan, Turkey, South Africa, and multiple EU nations have issued strong condemnations of Israel strikes on civilian infrastructure. Despite diplomatic pressure, ceasefire negotiations being mediated in Qatar remain deadlocked.

The total death toll in Gaza now exceeds 53,000, with over 121,000 injured, marking one of the deadliest episodes in recent Middle Eastern history.