Israeli missiles strike Gaza hospital, hitting Al-Ahli Arab Baptist Hospital and destroying its emergency and reception departments. Fortunately, no casualties occurred because Israeli security personnel allegedly called in a warning, allowing patients to evacuate.
The hospital, a major medical facility run by the Anglican Church, became inoperable, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Hundreds of patients had to evacuate in the middle of the night, with many now stranded in the streets without medical aid.
“The scene was scary… I haven’t slept a single minute out of fear,” said injured patient Mohammed Abu Nasser.
Israel Says Hamas Was Operating Within Hospital
The Israeli military stated that the strike targeted Hamas operatives, who allegedly used the hospital as a command center. Israel claims Hamas uses civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, for military purposes—a charge Hamas continues to deny.
The Baptist Church in Jerusalem confirmed the strike destroyed its Genetic Laboratory and damaged the Pharmacy and Emergency Department, calling on global governments to stop attacks on medical and humanitarian institutions.
Growing Humanitarian Crisis
This attack is part of a larger pattern of strikes on Gaza’s health facilities, escalating a worsening humanitarian crisis. Gaza’s health system is on the brink of collapse, with over 50,000 Palestinians killed since the start of the war, according to local health authorities.
Images and footage from the aftermath show heavy destruction and patients unable to leave the facility. A Human Rights Watch investigation into a separate 2023 incident at the same hospital determined a failed Palestinian rocket launch likely caused that blast, contradicting initial claims by Hamas.
Wider Conflict and Ongoing Strikes
Elsewhere in Gaza on Sunday:
- 14 Palestinians were killed in separate airstrikes.
- A police chief died in Khan Younis.
- A strike on a vehicle in Deir Al-Balah killed six brothers.
The Gaza war began after Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel, which left 1,200 Israelis dead and 251 hostages taken, per Israeli figures. In response, Israel launched a sweeping military campaign across the strip.
As of April 2025, Gaza lies in ruins, and most of its population has been displaced.
Source: USA today
