Israel struck Gaza's Nasser Hospital four times, analysis finds

Israel Struck Gaza's Nasser Hospital Four Times, New Footage Reveals

New analysis of footage has uncovered that Israel conducted at least four strikes on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza, a significantly higher number than previously acknowledged. This revelation comes amid ongoing international scrutiny of the military operations in the besieged Palestinian territory and raises serious questions about the protection afforded to medical facilities under international law. The initial reports suggested fewer incidents, but the detailed examination of video evidence paints a more alarming picture of the sustained impact on this critical healthcare infrastructure.

Unveiling the Extent of the Strikes

The BBC's investigation, which meticulously reviewed video footage and satellite imagery, indicates that two additional strikes impacted the hospital complex. These findings directly contradict earlier statements, suggesting a potential underestimation or lack of comprehensive reporting on the events. Nasser Hospital, one of the largest in Gaza, has been a vital hub for medical care, particularly during the intense Israeli military offensive in the southern Gaza Strip. Its capacity to function has been severely compromised by the repeated impacts.

The analysis points to specific instances where the hospital grounds, including areas adjacent to treatment facilities, were hit. This raises concerns about whether Israel accurately assessed the hospital's status as a protected medical site before and during these strikes. International humanitarian law, specifically the Geneva Conventions, mandates the protection of hospitals and medical personnel, even in times of armed conflict. Attacks on such facilities are considered war crimes unless they are being used for military purposes by the enemy, and even then, strict proportionality and precautions must be observed.

Humanitarian Impact and International Law

The implications of these repeated strikes on Nasser Hospital are profound. Medical staff have described harrowing conditions, with shortages of supplies, power outages, and the constant threat of further bombardment. Patients, many of whom are critically injured or suffering from chronic illnesses, are bearing the brunt of the disruption. The ability of the hospital to provide even basic medical care has been severely hampered, leading to preventable suffering and loss of life.

Dr. Marwan Abu Saada, a surgeon who worked at Nasser Hospital, shared his experiences with the BBC, describing the immense pressure and fear faced by the medical teams. "Every day was a struggle for survival, not just for the patients, but for us too," he reportedly stated. "We were trying to save lives with almost nothing, and the sound of explosions was constant. You never knew when the next strike would hit." Such accounts underscore the devastating human cost of the conflict on healthcare in Gaza.

The findings of the BBC's analysis will likely fuel further calls for an independent investigation into the conduct of Israeli forces in Gaza. Human rights organizations have consistently documented alleged violations of international law, and the targeting of hospitals, even indirectly, is a particularly grave concern. The question remains: how can Israel ensure it is adhering to its obligations under international law when such discrepancies in reporting emerge?

Israel's Response and Context

In response to previous allegations concerning attacks on hospitals, the Israeli military has often stated that it takes "great pains" to avoid civilian casualties and that its operations are aimed at Hamas militants, who they accuse of operating within and from civilian infrastructure, including hospitals. They maintain that when such facilities are used for military purposes, they lose their protected status. However, the burden of proof lies with the attacking force to demonstrate that these conditions are met and that all feasible precautions were taken.

The situation in Khan Younis has been particularly intense, with Israeli forces conducting a ground operation aimed at dismantling Hamas infrastructure. The presence of Hamas fighters or facilities within or near hospitals is a complex issue, but it does not grant a free hand to attack the entire medical facility indiscriminately. The principle of distinction, a cornerstone of international humanitarian law, requires combatants to distinguish between combatants and civilians, and between military objectives and civilian objects.

The repeated strikes on Nasser Hospital, as revealed by the new footage, necessitate a thorough examination of whether Israel's actions met these legal standards. Were there specific military objectives being targeted within the hospital complex? If so, were the principles of proportionality and precaution adequately applied? The lack of clarity and the conflicting numbers highlight the urgent need for transparency and accountability.

The Broader Picture in Gaza

Nasser Hospital is not an isolated case. Numerous other medical facilities across Gaza have been damaged or destroyed since the conflict escalated. The Palestinian Ministry of Health has reported widespread destruction of healthcare infrastructure, with many hospitals operating at a fraction of their capacity or being entirely non-functional. This systematic degradation of healthcare services has created a dire humanitarian crisis, exacerbating the impact of injuries, diseases, and malnutrition.

International aid organizations have repeatedly warned of the catastrophic consequences of these attacks on the civilian population. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been vocal in its calls for unimpeded access for humanitarian aid and for the protection of healthcare workers and facilities. The continued bombardment of essential services like hospitals makes the delivery of life-saving assistance incredibly challenging, if not impossible, in many areas.

The revelations about Nasser Hospital are a stark reminder of the immense challenges faced by civilians and medical personnel in Gaza. As the international community grapples with the ongoing conflict, the meticulous analysis of evidence, such as that presented by the BBC, becomes crucial in holding all parties accountable and ensuring that the principles of international humanitarian law are upheld. The question for many will be: when will sufficient evidence be enough to trigger meaningful international action to protect Gaza's remaining vital infrastructure and its people?