Condemnation Over Deliberate Destruction of Turkish-Palestinian Hospital by Israel

The Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, previously damaged by Israeli strikes, was leveled on Friday by an Israeli attack, as seen in footage showing a massive fire and smoke.

Israel has further expanded operations in the Netzarim Corridor near the hospital and blocked movement on Salah al-Din Street.

Tareq Abu Azzoum of Al Jazeera reported from Deir el-Balah that the destruction threatens thousands of patients without cancer treatment options, amidst ongoing Israeli operations.

Previously, the hospital’s third floor was hit in an October 30 strike, and fuel shortages forced its closure on November 1, leading to patient deaths due to lack of care.

The Turks had provided a $34m donation to rebuild the hospital in 2017.

Israel claims the hospital was used by Hamas without evidence.

‘State Terrorism’

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the destruction as part of Israel’s policy to make Gaza uninhabitable and force displacement of Palestinians, calling for international action against Israel’s “systematic state terrorism.”

Gaza’s Ministry of Health also criticized Israel’s behavior as part of a pattern of health system destruction and genocide.

The hospital, the largest in Gaza, was crucial for treating up to 30,000 cancer patients annually.

Elsewhere, air strikes resulted in five child deaths upon arrival at al-Ahli Arab Hospital.

Hamas is considering a US “bridge” proposal for a ceasefire, while Germany, France, and Britain pressure the US to support an immediate Gaza truce and humanitarian aid.

US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff discusses “stability” in Gaza but remains vague about specific ceasefire plans.