Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 29 people, including four medical staff, near Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza. The area has endured heavy military operations, leaving only a few hospitals still operational. Dr Hussam Abu Safia, the hospital’s director, called the situation catastrophic. Among the casualties were five children and five women. Kamal Adwan is one of the last hospitals in the region still functioning. For two months, the area has been cut off from humanitarian aid.
Israel denies attacking the hospital
The Israeli military denied targeting the hospital. They said they have worked with international organisations to transfer patients and staff to other hospitals. Meanwhile, an Indonesian medical team at Kamal Adwan had to evacuate after Israeli forces surrounded the area. Dr Rik Peeperkorn, the World Health Organisation representative, explained that a tank approached the hospital around 4 a.m. on Friday. This triggered panic among staff and patients, leading to Israeli gunfire. Although Israel did not issue a formal evacuation order, the situation led to further violence from Israeli Defence Forces (IDF).
Israeli forces have hit the hospital several times over the past two months. In October, Israeli troops raided the facility, claiming militants were hiding there. However, hospital officials strongly denied these accusations.
Saudi Arabia calls for an end to the conflict
Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, called again for an end to the Gaza conflict. He accused Israel of acting with impunity and stressed the importance of a two-state solution, with East Jerusalem as Palestine’s capital.
Prince Turki Al-Faisal, a prominent Saudi royal, also spoke at the International Institute for Security Studies’ Manama Dialogue in Bahrain. He sharply criticised Israel, calling it an apartheid, colonial, and genocidal state. Furthermore, he urged the international community to take action and hold Israeli leaders accountable. Israeli officials have not yet responded to his comments.
