Israel Denies Reports That It Attacked Gaza Hospital

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) denied claims on Saturday that it attacked a hospital in Gaza and that those inside were trapped.

IDF spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said in a press briefing Saturday evening, “… I want to clarify the facts. There is no siege, I repeat no siege, on Shifa Hospital. The east side of the hospital is open for the safe passage of Gazans who wish to leave the hospital.”  

Hagari also said the army would continue to allow patients and staff at Gaza’s hospitals, and all noncombatants in northern Gaza, to evacuate to the south. 

On Saturday, news outlets reported that Israel attacked the largest hospital in Gaza. “Israeli military fired on people at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza, Doctors Without Borders claims,” The Hill reported. And a New York Times headline announced, “A Major Gaza Hospital Is ‘Out of Service,’ Red Crescent Says” — that story was about the Al-Quds Hospital in Gaza City.  

On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared on Meet the Press. One of the topics he addressed was the international call for a cease-fire. You can watch a segment from his appearance below: