US President Joe Biden expresses support for the protection of Al Shifa hospital in Gaza City on Monday and hopes for less intrusive action there. However, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan defends Israel’s right to attack Hamas installations in those institutions. Sullivan stated that we do not want firefights in hospitals, but instead want patients protected.
Israeli tanks have been positioned at the gates of Gaza City’s main hospital, Al Shifa, as at least 650 patients remain inside, hoping to be evacuated. Ashraf Al-Qidra, a spokesperson for the Gaza health ministry, reported that 32 patients, including three newborn babies, have died in the hospital due to the siege and lack of power.
Israel claims that the hospital sits atop tunnels housing a headquarters for Hamas fighters using patients as human shields.
Sullivan emphasized the complexity of Israel’s position in the conflict, describing the IDF as facing “murderous terrorists.” He pointed out the difficulties of dealing with a terrorist organization like Hamas, which uses civilians and civilian infrastructure for its military operations.
Sullivan also addressed the issue of hostages in Gaza, including US citizens, stating that the US has limited visibility into their whereabouts and condition.
This report includes information from Reuters.
