An Israeli airstrike on a hospital in southern Gaza has resulted in the loss of at least two lives, including Ismail Barhoum, a senior member of Hamas’s political bureau, and a 16-year-old boy, according to statements from Hamas and health officials. The incident took place at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis on Sunday evening.

Hamas condemned the attack, characterizing it as another act of violence in a long history marked by violations against civilians and medical facilities. The group emphasized this attack as indicative of a broader disregard for international laws and the ongoing struggles faced by the Palestinian people.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed that Barhoum was specifically targeted during the airstrike. The Israeli military stated that the airstrike was executed with “precise munitions to mitigate harm,” asserting that a thorough intelligence-gathering process preceded the attack. They accused Hamas of exploiting civilian infrastructure to further their objectives, claiming that the group was using an operational hospital as a base for planning and executing attacks, which they argue is a violation of international law.

This particular airstrike happened shortly after reports that Israeli forces had killed Salah al-Bardawil, another member of Hamas’s political bureau, along with his wife, in a subsequent strike in Khan Younis. This renewed military action follows a hiatus in operations as discussions surrounding a potential ceasefire with Hamas were ongoing. Since that time, Israeli forces have reportedly killed four members of Hamas’s political bureau.

Footage captured outside Nasser Hospital displayed a fireball erupting from the upper floors while journalist Rami Abu Taima prepared for a live report. Additionally, at least eight other Palestinians were reported injured in this attack, all of whom were receiving medical treatment for previous injuries.

Al Jazeera correspondent Hind Khoudary highlighted the overwhelming situation in hospitals across Gaza, emphasizing shortages in medical supplies due to the ongoing blockade, which has persisted for 21 days. As conditions worsen throughout the region, particularly in areas such as Beit Lahiya in the north and Rafah in the south, healthcare professionals are struggling to manage the influx of casualties.

Feroze Sidhwa, a trauma surgeon volunteering at Nasser Hospital, noted the tragic loss of the young boy, who was likely on the verge of recovery after a recent surgery. The damage inflicted on the surgical ward has rendered it completely non-operational, requiring extensive repairs.

Throughout this conflict, the ongoing humanitarian challenges faced by Gazans continue to draw international attention, underscoring the need for urgent aid and support. As the situation develops, it remains critical for the world to engage in dialogues promoting peace and understanding in the region.

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