A United Nations official has expressed deep concern over the ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza, which have resulted in heavy civilian casualties and the destruction of medical facilities. Stephanie Tremblay, a UN spokeswoman, condemned the continuous attacks, particularly those that have left numerous Palestinians dead, and criticized the damage caused to medical institutions like Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza.
Tremblay’s statement noted that Israeli forces had set fire to parts of the hospital, and an airstrike near the facility had killed dozens, including healthcare workers. She further reported that staff, patients, and visitors at the hospital were forced out, and significant damage was caused to the infrastructure. The UN has also faced systematic denial of access to northern Gaza, with Israeli authorities blocking humanitarian teams from reaching the region.
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Tremblay also raised alarms about ongoing military operations in the West Bank, particularly in the Tulkarm refugee camp, where Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 20 Palestinians in 10 days. The excessive use of force, described as “war-like tactics,” has raised serious concerns over the legality of such operations under international law. Furthermore, the UN reports that over 4,700 Palestinians have been displaced across the West Bank this year, including nearly 2,000 children.
In response to the raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital, the Palestinian resistance group Hamas condemned the attack, labeling it a “heinous crime” and rejecting Israeli claims that Hamas fighters were present at the hospital. Hamas called for an independent UN investigation into Israeli actions in Gaza, accusing Israel of attempting genocide and forced displacement in the region.
Since the start of Israel’s ground offensive in northern Gaza in October 2023, the death toll has surpassed 45,400, and much of Gaza has been reduced to rubble. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, and Israel faces a case at the International Court of Justice for alleged genocide.
