CNN Middle East Update: Hospital Director Arrested Amid Raid on Gaza's Last Functioning Facility
Israeli forces conducted a raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital, the last major functioning health facility in northern Gaza, resulting in the arrest of its director, Hussam Abu Safiya, and several staff members. The raid has led to the closure of the hospital, intensifying the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The World Health Organization reported that all remaining patients, some critically ill, along with caregivers and health workers, have been transferred to the Indonesian Hospital in Beit Lahiya. The conditions in northern Gaza have deteriorated due to continuous Israeli attacks, further depleting essential resources like food, water, and medical supplies.
During the raid, Israeli forces ordered patients and staff out of the hospital, separating them by gender and instructing them to remove their clothing in public, which has been met with international concern. This action was reportedly followed by physical assaults on those who resisted.
The Israeli military justified the arrests and the raid by alleging the hospital was being used as a "Hamas terror stronghold" and stated that Dr. Abu Safiya was suspected of being a Hamas operative. However, the specifics of these accusations remain unclear, and the Israeli military has provided limited comments regarding the allegations of mistreatment during the raid.
As the situation unfolds, international humanitarian organizations and the global community remain deeply concerned about the implications of these actions on the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. Further reports indicate that evacuated patients, including those with severe injuries and disabilities, faced harsh conditions and treatment during their relocation.