Israeli forces, disguised as civilians and medics, conducted a raid on a hospital in the West Bank, resulting in the killing of three Palestinian militants. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that there would be no military withdrawal from Gaza or release of jailed militants. The Palestinian Health Ministry reported that the Israeli forces opened fire inside the Ibn Sina Hospital in Jenin without an exchange of fire, indicating a targeted killing. Israel’s military alleged that the militants were using the hospital as a hideout and were planning an attack.
Netanyahu rejected the demands made by Hamas for a cease-fire and vowed to continue the fight until achieving “absolute victory” over Hamas. Hamas’ top political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, mentioned that the group was considering the terms for a deal that included the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and a long-term cease-fire. The war in Gaza, which began with an attack by Hamas-led militants on southern Israel, has resulted in the deaths of over 26,700 people and has displaced a large portion of the population.
Israel has faced criticism for its raids on hospitals in Gaza, where they claim militants use the facilities as cover. The war in Gaza has strained the region’s health care system, leading to a lack of medical necessities. In the West Bank, violence has escalated, resulting in the killing of over 380 Palestinians in confrontations with Israeli forces. The raid on the hospital in Jenin was described as a “cowardly assassination” by Hamas. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has caused vast destruction and displacement in the region.