Israeli Forces Tighten Grip on Gaza Hospitals, Urgent Evacuation Pleas Made

Israeli forces have surrounded al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza, trapping thousands of injured and displaced people inside. Ambulances are unable to enter or leave the facility, and medical supplies and food are running low. Israeli snipers and artillery are targeting anyone moving outside the hospital. The escalating bombardment comes after an Israeli strike on the hospital killed at least 13 people. The World Health Organization and the Palestine Red Crescent Society have expressed concern for the safety of patients, health workers, and those sheltering in hospitals. Israel claims the hospital is used by Hamas as a command center, which both the hospital staff and Hamas deny. Half of Gaza's hospitals are not functioning, and two-thirds of its primary care facilities are out of commission.