Israel targets senior Hamas member in Gaza hospital strike

The Israeli military stated that Abu Ismail and other Hamas militants had been operating a command center inside the Nasser Hospital. Gaza's civil defense service reported that at least six people were killed, including surgeon Rizk Abu Sharia, with more than 20 wounded. Parts of several floors were severely damaged or destroyed in the strike.

Military claims

In a statement, the IDF alleged that Hamas was using the hospital as a hub for military and terrorist activities against Israeli troops and civilians. They claimed Abu Ismail was responsible for directing attacks against Israeli civilians and IDF troops, as well as holding numerous hostages.

The military asserted that the hospital was used for storing weapons, conducting interrogations, operating command-and-control rooms, and sheltering terrorists.

Hospital strike aftermath

The Gaza Health Ministry confirmed the Israeli airstrike hit the surgery department. Reuters reported seeing footage showing extensive damage with debris scattered around rooms and equipment. Wounded people were seen in the wreckage while bodies were being carried away as firefighters worked to clear the scene.

Continuing conflict

The war began in October 2023 after Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Since then, more than 74,000 people have been killed in Gaza according to the Health Ministry. Over 1.6 million of Gaza's 2.1 million residents now live in tents or other makeshift shelters.

A ceasefire took effect in October 2025, but attacks have continued. Israel claims Hamas is trying to regroup, while the militant group says it remains committed to the ceasefire and accuses Israel of undermining the agreement.