Israeli forces have detained more than 240 Palestinians, including dozens of medical staff from the Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza. The Health Ministry in the enclave and Israel's military reported the raid took place on Friday.
Health officials expressed concern for the well-being of Hussam Abu Safiya, the director of Kamal Adwan Hospital. Freed staff members reported that Abu Safiya was beaten by soldiers before being taken by the military for questioning.
The Israeli military claimed that the hospital was being used as a command center for Hamas operations and that the detainees are suspected militants. They also indicated that Abu Safiya is suspected of being a Hamas operative.
In response, Hamas dismissed Israel's allegations, stating that no fighters have been operating out of the hospital throughout the 15-month conflict in Gaza. As of now, Hamas has not commented on the 240 arrests.
On Saturday, Hamas called on the United Nations and relevant international agencies to urgently intervene to protect remaining hospitals and medical facilities in northern Gaza. The group also requested UN observers be sent to medical facilities to counter Israeli claims of military use.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
