Israeli Airstrike on Gaza Hospital Kills 21, Including Children

• Israel warns of intensified airstrikes in Gaza

• Hamas releases video of Israeli-American hostage criticizing Netanyahu government

Gaza City: On Sunday, during the observance of Palm Sunday, Israel launched a series of airstrikes targeting a hospital, municipal buildings, homes, and vehicles in Gaza. The attacks resulted in the deaths of 21 people, including several children, reigniting violence in the Middle East. Israel has since warned of further airstrikes and an increased military presence in the region.

Israel claims Hamas used hospital to plan attacks

Israel’s Defense Minister announced an escalation in military operations and urged Palestinian civilians to stay away from designated “fighting zones.” On Saturday, Israel unveiled a plan to create the “Morag Corridor,” aimed at separating the southern city of Rafah from the rest of the Gaza Strip. As part of this strategy, Israel has intensified its assault on Gaza.

In the early hours of Sunday, the Israeli Air Force struck the Al-Ahli Hospital in northern Gaza, a facility providing critical health services. Hospital Director Dr. Fadel Naeem reported severe damage to the emergency room, pharmacy, and surrounding buildings. Over 100 patients had to be urgently evacuated, including a young girl who died during the process. The attack occurred on Palm Sunday, which marks the beginning of the holiest week in the Christian calendar, commemorating Jesus Christ’s arrival in Jerusalem.

Israel claimed that the hospital was being used as a command and control center by Hamas. According to the Israeli military, Hamas uses such facilities to plan and launch attacks on Israeli civilians and soldiers. Israel stated it will continue its offensive and increase pressure on Hamas to secure the release of 59 hostages.

Hamas releases video of American hostage

Amid the ongoing conflict, Hamas released a video of an Israeli-American hostage who was abducted during the October 7, 2023 attacks. The hostage, identified as Adan Alexander, criticized both the Israeli government under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the U.S. administration under former President Donald Trump. In the video, he pleaded for his release and questioned why negotiations for the hostages had stalled. He also identified himself as a soldier in the Israeli military. The location and date of the video recording remain unknown.