Overview and Background

On March 23, 2025, Israeli military strikes in Gaza resulted in the destruction of the Turkish Friendship Hospital in Khan Younis, a significant healthcare facility that was Gaza's only cancer treatment center. This attack was part of Israel's ongoing military campaign against Hamas, which it accused of using the hospital for military purposes without providing evidence. The hospital's demolition reflects the severe impact of the conflict on Gaza's healthcare system, which has already faced serious challenges due to prior strikes and resource shortages.

Since the onset of the renewed military operations on March 18, following the breakdown of a ceasefire agreement, the Palestinian Health Ministry reported that over 50,000 Palestinians have been killed, including a significant number of children. The Israeli military has confirmed targeting Hamas leaders, including Ismail Barhoum, during airstrikes on medical facilities. These actions have drawn international condemnation amid allegations of war crimes and concerns over the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Key Findings

• Destruction of Medical Facilities: The Turkish Friendship Hospital was demolished, with Israel claiming it was being used for military purposes.
• High Casualty Figures: The ongoing conflict has left over 50,000 Palestinians dead, with reports indicating that a large proportion are civilians.
• Targeting of Hamas Leaders: Israeli airstrikes killed Hamas officials, including Ismail Barhoum, while they were receiving medical care.
• International Response: The international community has condemned the violence, calling for a ceasefire and the protection of civilians in Gaza.
• Humanitarian Crisis: The Israeli blockade has resulted in severe shortages of food, medicine, and other essential supplies, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The escalation of violence has prompted calls for renewed negotiations and a return to ceasefire conditions, but the situation remains dire as the conflict continues to unfold.