Tensions Rise in North Gaza as Last Hospital Evacuated Amid Ongoing Conflict

The evacuation of al-Awda hospital under Israeli military orders has left North Gaza without any operational healthcare facilities, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis as discussions for a ceasefire continue amidst persistent violence.

The last remaining hospital in North Gaza has ceased operations following an urgent evacuation mandated by the Israeli military, according to Dr. Mohammed Salha, the hospital's director. The al-Awda hospital in Jabalia, which had been a vital source of healthcare services for over two weeks during a military siege, was emptied of patients on Thursday night. Dr. Salha stated, “We are saddened that we evacuated the hospital," citing threats from Israeli forces of potential violence should the evacuation not occur.

Hamas is currently deliberating a proposed U.S. ceasefire plan that Israel has reportedly approved, although the group asserts that the plan fails to meet its primary requirements for ending hostilities. President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the prospect of an impending agreement that would establish a temporary cessation of hostilities.

Evacuated patients were transferred to al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City, as severe bombardment in the area had rendered nearby transport routes impassable. Dr. Salha indicated that the health staff would attempt to provide care through a primary health center in Gaza City and contemplate establishing another facility in a local shelter.

With the closure of al-Awda, the director-general of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, reiterated the critical importance of protecting medical facilities, stating, "Hospitals must never be attacked or militarized." The international community has expressed alarm at the dire healthcare situation, with reports indicating that most healthcare centers within the region are either damaged or non-functional.

Despite increased military activities, Israel has begun allowing limited humanitarian aid into Gaza after months of blockade, though chaos has erupted at distribution points. Many humanitarian organizations, wary of the Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation's operations, argue that the aid being provided does not adhere to established humanitarian principles.

The ongoing humanitarian crisis has reached alarming levels, with emergency assessments suggesting that the population in Gaza is at risk of famine. UN officials have described the situation as one of "forced starvation," urging for an increase in humanitarian access. In response to criticism, Israel denied claims of a humanitarian blockade, citing its military actions as necessary to secure the release of hostages.

The situation continues to evolve amidst severe conflict, and the urgency for effective humanitarian intervention has been underscored by both local and international calls for peace and support for the affected population.