In a recent press conference, the White House confirmed that Hamas terrorists are utilizing Gaza’s largest hospital, al-Shifa, as a base for military operations and to hold hostages. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated that the information was obtained from various intelligence sources. This confirmation supports the claims made by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) over the past weeks as they continue their ground operation in the Gaza strip.
Kirby revealed that Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad members have been operating a command and control node from al-Shifa in Gaza City. The hospital has been used to store weapons and is prepared to respond to any Israeli military operation against the facility. However, Kirby emphasized that the Biden administration does not support striking a hospital from the air and does not want to see civilians seeking treatment caught in a firefight.
The presence of Hamas within the hospital has posed an added burden on the Israeli military, as they must protect civilians while targeting Hamas operatives. Kirby stated that Hamas’ use of the hospital constitutes a war crime and reiterated the administration’s stance against a cease-fire in the ongoing war.
Video footage released by the IDF this week provided evidence of Hamas using tunnel systems connected to hospitals for their operations. While it is unlikely that Israel will carry out a full-scale airstrike on the hospital, experts predict a bloody battle if an operation is conducted to neutralize Hamas’ presence in al-Shifa.
The confirmation of Hamas’ use of a hospital for military purposes raises concerns about the safety of civilians seeking medical treatment. The Biden administration is actively engaging with counterparts to address the situation and ensure the protection of innocent lives.
It is important to note that this article provides a comprehensive overview of the White House’s confirmation regarding Hamas’ use of al-Shifa hospital. The information presented is based on intelligence sources and expert opinions. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to escalate, and the international community closely monitors the situation for any potential resolution.
