CNN Spanish Reports Deadly Explosion at Gaza’s Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital
Tensions between Israel and Hamas have reached a new level following a deadly explosion at Gaza’s Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital on Tuesday. The conflict began on October 7 when Hamas launched an incursion into Israeli territory, resulting in civilian deaths and kidnappings. The situation has escalated, with Gaza under siege by Israel, causing difficulties for hospitals in caring for the injured due to shortages of electricity and water.
The number of victims from the hospital explosion cannot be independently confirmed, but initial reports suggested “hundreds of dead.” The Palestinian Ministry of Health, controlled by Hamas, has stated that there were 471 fatalities and over 300 wounded. The victims include patients, medical staff, and individuals seeking shelter in the hospital during Israeli bombings. Hamas has claimed that over 500 people were killed in the attack. Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has blamed “barbaric Gaza terrorists” for the incident.
There are conflicting reports and accusations regarding the cause of the explosion. Palestinian officials attribute it to Israeli airstrikes, describing it as a “cold-blooded massacre.” However, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) denies any involvement, stating that it was a result of a failed rocket launch by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group. The IDF points out that there is no structural damage to the hospital, indicating that the explosion was not caused by an aerial munition.
The international community has reacted with condemnation and concern over the hospital explosion. Countries including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Iraq accused Israel of bombing the hospital. European leaders expressed condolences and called for a thorough investigation into the incident.
Protests erupted across the region, with thousands of people taking to the streets in Lebanon, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Egypt, and Tunisia. Arab leaders condemned Israel, and acts of violence were reported near Israeli embassies. The US State Department issued a warning to American citizens not to travel to Lebanon due to the unrest. In Iran, protesters targeted the French and British embassies in Tehran, chanting anti-Israel slogans.
President Joe Biden, who was visiting Israel during this time, expressed his sadness and outrage over the hospital explosion. He suggested that it appeared to be carried out by “the other side,” but did not provide evidence to support the claim. The US government is still investigating the origin of the rocket attack.
The situation in Gaza remains highly volatile, with the potential for further escalation and cross-border implications. It is crucial for international actors to intervene and address the humanitarian crisis in the region.