Battle-Worn Gaza Hospital Pulls Through the Storm

Last week, northern Gaza’s Kamal Adwan Hospital faced a tough challenge. Israeli troops entered the hospital, forcing staff and patients out in the cold. The hospital had already been hit multiple times during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Just a day before this incident, an attack killed five medical staff. Israel’s military confirmed their presence near the hospital but denied setting it on fire. They claimed Hamas used the hospital as cover, a claim hospital officials vehemently denied. Witnesses reported fires breaking out in several parts of the hospital, including the lab and surgery department. Despite the chaos, 25 patients and 60 health workers remained inside. Some patients were moved to other facilities, like the Indonesian Hospital, which was recently targeted by Israeli raids. The hospitalstaff described the scene as devastating, with fires raging and patients in dire need of medical attention. The situation in northern Gaza is grim. The area has been isolated since October, and many residents fear famine. The Israeli military has restricted humanitarian aid, with only four deliveries allowed since December. The United Nations has expressed concern, saying the hospital should be protected under international law. The conflict has had a severe impact on Gaza’s health sector. Hospitals like Kamal Adwan have been targeted repeatedly, and the death toll is staggering. According to the Health Ministry, over 45, 400 Palestinians have died, with more than half being women and children. Life in Gaza doesn’t just mean dealing with the conflict; it also means enduring harsh weather conditions. With more than 90% of Gaza’s population displaced, many are living in tent camps, exposed to cold temperatures and sea spray. At least three babies have died from exposure in recent days, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation.