In a recent development, the U.S. Department of Defense has confirmed intelligence suggesting that Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, is using hospitals in Gaza to conceal and support military operations, as well as hold hostages. This revelation comes after Israel Defense Forces spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari shared a video showing a tunnel leading from the house of a senior terrorist to the Rantisi hospital, which was used as a base.
The Pentagon has expressed concern over this misuse of hospitals, emphasizing that these facilities should be places for people to seek medical treatment and should be protected. Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh stated during a briefing that both Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad are using hospitals in Gaza, including the al-Shifa hospital, to hide their activities. Singh also revealed that Hamas operates a command control node from the al-Shifa hospital, where they store weapons and prepare for Israeli military operations.
While the U.S. intelligence community assesses the situation in Gaza City, Singh reiterated that the goal is to avoid any firefight in hospitals where innocent civilians may be present. The intelligence source providing this information was not disclosed. It is important to note that the United States does not have boots on the ground in Gaza.
National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby also confirmed the information regarding Hamas’s use of hospitals in Gaza, stating that these facilities were being utilized to conceal military operations, support militant activities, and hold hostages. Kirby emphasized that the United States does not support striking hospitals from the air and urged the protection of hospitals and patients.
This confirmation raises concerns about the media’s coverage of the conflict in Gaza. Just weeks ago, Lt. Col. Peter Lerner of the Israel Defense Forces criticized mainstream media outlets for spreading Hamas’s false claim that Israel was responsible for an explosion at the al-Ahli Baptist Hospital. It was later determined that Hamas had fired missiles from Gaza, and one had gone astray, discrediting the accusations against Israel.
Hamas has faced accusations of using civilians as shields, as they hide among the population and often wear civilian clothing during their attacks. This tactic further endangers innocent people caught in the crossfire.
As the situation in Gaza continues to unfold, it is crucial to remain skeptical of sources and ensure accurate reporting. The confirmation of Hamas’s use of hospitals for military operations and hostages highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of the conflict and its complexities.
Greg Wehner is a breaking news reporter for Digital.
