Hamas allegedly operating from command node beneath Al-Shifa hospital, claims US official
Hamas allegedly operates a command center beneath Gaza's Al-Shifa hospital, utilizing fuel intended for the facility US intelligence suggests that Hamas fighters frequently gather in and around the hospital, raising concerns over its use as a potential shield for military activities
According to a US official familiar with American intelligence, Hamas has established a command center beneath the Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza. Additionally, they frequently gather in and around this major hospital, using fuel intended for medical purposes. These revelations coincide with recent statements made by a senior White House official, suggesting that Hamas is making use of hospitals and other civilian establishments.
"According to National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, Hamas has been using hospitals, along with other civilian facilities, for various purposes such as command-and-control, storing weapons, and housing its fighters. While not discussing any specific hospital or claim, Sullivan points to Hamas' track record in doing so, both historically and in the current conflict."
Despite criticism from the UN and other international organizations, Israel insists on justifying its military action around the hospital. The Israeli government has announced the creation of evacuation corridors, called for the removal of civilians, and provided fuel in an effort to address the situation.
Hamas and hospital officials have refuted the allegation that the hospital is being utilized as a command center. The revelation that US intelligence assessments seemingly support Israel's assertions emerges amidst heightened global scrutiny of the conflict surrounding the hospital. Additionally, there are reports indicating that numerous patients, including children, have tragically perished in what the director of the hospital has described as "devastating" circumstances.
"The dire situation at the hospital is characterized by the lack of water, food, and milk for infants and children," stated Dr. Muhammad Abu Salmiya, the esteemed director of the medical center, in his conversation with CNN on Monday. In contrast, Israel maintains its position that patients can be safely relocated from the hospital.
Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu expressed that it is imperative to evacuate the patients from the area being used by Hamas as a terrorism command center. He highlighted how Hamas exploits this location for firing rockets at Israel and constructing terror tunnels to harm Israeli civilians. In an interview with CNN's Dana Bash on State of the Union, Netanyahu emphasized that although Israel takes precautions in dealing with hospitals, they cannot grant immunity to terrorists.
The CIA has declined to provide a comment, while CNN has not had access to the intelligence mentioned by the US official.
On Monday, Dr. Munir Al-Bursh, the director-general of Hamas-controlled health ministry, stated that medical personnel at Al-Shifa have rejected an evacuation order from the IDF due to concerns that around 700 patients will lose their lives if abandoned.
Al-Bursh, speaking to CNN on Monday, stated that the issue lies not with the doctors but with the patients. He emphasized that if the patients are abandoned, they will perish. Additionally, if they are relocated, they are at risk of dying during the journey. Al-Bursh stressed the severity of the problem, revealing that around 700 patients are currently affected. Furthermore, he highlighted that while the doctors have yet to provide a response, some displaced individuals and families have already begun to seek alternative solutions.
The World Health Organization says Al-Shifa has been without power for three days. "Regrettably, the hospital is not functioning as a hospital anymore," it said.
