Israeli forces have besieged two additional hospitals in the already besieged Gaza Strip, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society reported on Sunday that the hospitals were under siege as heavy shelling continued in the region.

According to the Palestinian Red Crescent, medical workers found themselves trapped amid the intense bombardment, further endangering the lives of civilians seeking medical assistance. This development comes after 480 people were reportedly detained in Gaza's main hospital, al-Shifa, for several days during the ongoing clashes. Reuters, the British news agency, confirmed these distressing reports.

The Israeli military has justified its actions by claiming that Gaza hospitals are being utilized as bases by the Hamas group, which controls the territory. However, Hamas and hospital authorities vehemently deny these allegations.

Tragically, amidst the chaos, one worker from the Palestinian Red Crescent lost their life when Israeli tanks unexpectedly entered al-Amal and Nasser hospitals during heavy clashes in Khan Yunis. The situation at al-Amal Hospital is particularly dire, as Israeli forces have surrounded the facility with bulldozers, posing significant risks to all inside.

Reports indicate that Israel has demanded a complete evacuation of the hospital, putting the lives of hospital staff, patients, and displaced individuals in grave danger. Despite the perilous circumstances, many have sought refuge within the hospital premises.

The Israeli military claims it is targeting a terrorist base in Khan Yunis, justifying its aggressive actions. However, the indiscriminate attacks on medical facilities raise serious concerns about adherence to international humanitarian law.

This escalation follows Israel's detention of dozens of patients and medical staff from al-Shifa hospital for nearly a week, according to Gaza's health ministry. The ongoing violence in the region has taken a devastating toll, with thousands of Palestinians killed and tens of thousands more injured since October 7. Meanwhile, Hamas attacks have resulted in casualties among Israeli civilians as well.

As the situation continues to deteriorate, there are urgent calls from the international community to halt the violence and prioritize the protection of civilians, including medical personnel and facilities, in accordance with international law.