Israeli fighter jets launched devastating airstrikes on Gaza City areas surrounding the Al-Shifa hospital complex on Thursday, marking a dramatic escalation just hours after a US-brokered ceasefire agreement allegedly collapsed due to Hamas violations.
The renewed bombardment comes as a severe blow to diplomatic efforts led by the United States and Qatar, who had painstakingly negotiated a temporary humanitarian pause that began showing signs of strain throughout Wednesday.
Ceasefire Shatters Amid Mutual Accusations
According to Israeli military sources, Hamas fighters breached the truce agreement by firing toward Israeli territory from northern Gaza. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated their jets targeted Hamas operational command centers and military infrastructure in the immediate vicinity of Gaza's largest medical facility.
"Hamas violated the operational pause agreement," the IDF declared in an official statement, "and in addition, fired toward Israeli territory."
Al-Shifa Hospital at Center of Renewed Conflict
The proximity of the airstrikes to Al-Shifa hospital has raised immediate concerns among international humanitarian organizations. The medical complex, already struggling with limited supplies and overcrowded conditions, now faces renewed security threats as fighting intensifies in its surroundings.
Witnesses reported intense bombardment in the Rimal neighborhood and other sectors of Gaza City, with smoke rising from multiple locations near the hospital perimeter. The sounds of explosions and aircraft echoed through the night as the brief period of relative calm gave way to renewed violence.
International Diplomacy Faces Setback
The collapse of the US-backed truce represents a significant setback for international mediators who had been working to extend the temporary ceasefire. The agreement had facilitated the exchange of hostages and prisoners while allowing crucial humanitarian aid to reach Gaza's civilian population.
Qatari and Egyptian officials, who played key roles in the original negotiations, are reportedly engaged in urgent discussions to salvage the ceasefire arrangement. However, with both sides trading accusations and military operations resuming at full intensity, prospects for immediate de-escalation appear dim.
The renewed hostilities come as the United Nations and various human rights organizations express growing concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, particularly regarding medical facilities and the civilian population trapped in conflict zones.
