Israel-Hamas: Israel army withdraws siege on ‘terrorist’ lair

Israel forces have announced their withdrawal from al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City, marking the end of a two-week operation that saw heavy fighting and contentious claims about the hospital’s use by Hamas militants.

According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the operation resulted in the elimination of “terrorists” and the discovery of a cache of weapons and intelligence documents within the hospital premises.

The raid was launched based on Israeli intelligence indicating that Hamas was utilizing the hospital as a base for launching attacks, a claim vehemently denied by Hamas.

The withdrawal follows reports of intense clashes around al-Shifa hospital, the largest medical facility in Gaza, in recent weeks. Palestinian media had earlier reported the discovery of numerous bodies near the hospital, although these reports remain unverified by independent sources.

Throughout the operation, the IDF emphasized its efforts to minimize harm to civilians, patients, and medical personnel.

Despite allegations of civilian casualties, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that over 200 “terrorists” had been neutralized during the operation.

The IDF had previously accused Hamas of using civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, as cover for its military activities. The conflict escalated when Israel claimed to have evidence that hostages taken during previous attacks had been brought to al-Shifa hospital.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the World Health Organization (WHO), described the situation at al-Shifa as a “siege,” expressing concerns about the well-being of those trapped inside the hospital amidst the fighting.

Prime Minister Netanyahu, speaking prior to undergoing surgery for a hernia, reiterated Israel’s stance that al-Shifa was a “terrorist lair.”

He commended the Israeli soldiers for their precision and surgical execution of the surprise attack.

The withdrawal of Israeli forces from al-Shifa hospital marks the end of a contentious chapter in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, though tensions remain high as both sides continue to exchange accusations and engage in sporadic violence.