Gaza City, Palestine – Israeli forces detained Palestinian journalists and health workers in a disturbing incident at Al-Shifa Hospital, located in northern Gaza. Eyewitnesses reported that individuals were blindfolded and stripped down to their underwear in a humiliating manner. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted a siege on the hospital, resulting in the detention of several individuals, including a senior Hamas operative.
The Israeli military claimed that the hospital was being used by “senior Hamas terrorists” for terrorist activities, leading to the raid. Palestinian reporters and hospital staff shared accounts of degrading interrogations where colleagues were undressed and left exposed to the cold. Despite these claims, CNN was unable to independently verify the IDF’s statements.
Journalists from Al Jazeera, including Ismail Al Ghoul and his team, detailed being detained for 12 hours, enduring harsh treatment while blindfolded, even in inclement weather conditions. The ordeal included being strip-searched and left in vulnerable positions. Another team member, Ahmad al-Harazin, described the sudden raid by the Israeli army before their eventual release.
Furthermore, Samer Tarazi, part of Al Ghoul’s team, recounted the terrifying experience of being blindfolded and handcuffed during their detention at Al-Shifa Hospital. The IDF instructed Tarazi and his colleagues to flee south after their release, leaving them without their personal belongings. Al Jazeera subsequently alleged severe mistreatment and beating of the detained individuals, a claim that the IDF denied.
Dr. Marwan Abu Saada, head of surgery at Al-Shifa, provided insight into the chaotic situation at the hospital, where medical staff were subjected to humiliation and aggression. He highlighted the violations committed against the hospital staff, including deprivation of basic necessities like food and water, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.
As tensions escalated, the IDF reported the killing of numerous terrorists in the area and the questioning of suspects. The conflict between Israel and Hamas has led to a significant loss of life, with attacks on Gaza resulting in a high number of casualties. The situation at Al-Shifa Hospital exemplifies the challenges faced by civilians and medical personnel amid the ongoing violence.
Amid the escalating violence, reports emerged of displaced individuals seeking refuge at Al-Shifa Hospital before the deadly raid took place. Witnesses described the harrowing scenes of chaos and destruction, with families fleeing in terror amidst airstrikes and gunfire in the vicinity. The humanitarian crisis unfolding at the hospital underscored the urgent need for safety and protection for civilians caught in the crossfire.