In a recent report, the Israeli military has revealed the discovery of a 55-meter-long tunnel beneath Gaza’s Al Shifa hospital during a major ongoing operation. The tunnel, located 10 meters below the hospital complex, extends to a blast door, as disclosed in a statement by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).
The findings come amidst escalating tensions in the region, with Gaza’s largest hospital now labeled a “death zone” by the World Health Organization. Plans for the evacuation of the facility are underway as Israel intensifies its operations against Hamas.
Military spokesman Daniel Hagari provided details, stating that the entrance to the tunnel was uncovered when a military bulldozer knocked down the hospital complex’s outer wall. The fortified shaft revealed a spiral staircase descending 10 meters, showcasing the tunnel’s significant structure.
When the IDF initially entered Al-Shifa on Wednesday, the hospital complex, covering more than 20 acres, housed approximately 2,000 people. The conflict between Israel and Hamas, ongoing since October 7, has resulted in relentless Israeli airstrikes, causing significant casualties and kidnappings.
In response to evacuation orders, 291 patients, including 32 babies, were reported at Gaza’s largest hospital. The World Health Organization chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, confirmed the evacuation of 31 critically ill babies, along with six health workers and 10 staff family members, to a hospital in southern Gaza. Further relocation to Egypt is planned.
Read More: Israeli Forces Enter Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City
French President Emmanuel Macron has extended an offer to treat Gaza’s injured and sick children in French hospitals, with space available for up to 50 patients.
Read More: Protesters Confront Justin Trudeau, Call for Ceasefire in Gaza
The toll of the conflict is evident, with at least 13,000 Palestinians, including 5,500 children, reported killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza since October 7. Israel has suffered casualties, with 1,200 deaths, primarily during the initial attack by Hamas, and around 240 people taken captive by militants
