Leaders from the West Asia and surrounding regions convened in Saudi Arabia for an urgent summit addressing the dire situation in Gaza. The largest hospital in Gaza, Dar al-Shifa, faces a critical siege by Israeli forces, leaving it without power, water, and essential medical supplies. Staff trapped inside report strikes on the complex, with a plea for urgent intervention to prevent imminent catastrophe.
The hospital, a vital component of Gaza’s medical infrastructure, currently shelters around 15,000 people. Tens of thousands fled overnight as Israeli forces tightened their encirclement, hindering any movement within the compound. Hospital officials express the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the need for international assistance to avert a humanitarian disaster.
The escalating conflict has resulted in the loss of life and critical conditions within the hospital. Allegations of Israeli forces targeting the hospital are met with denial by Lt Col Richard Hecht of the Israel Defence Forces, who insists on Hamas operating from beneath the medical facility.
As leaders gather for the emergency summit, calls for immediate ceasefire and protection of civilians intensify. The Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, holds Israel accountable for the crisis, urging the UN Security Council and the international community to address the situation promptly.
The Iranian president, Ebrahim Raisi, emphasizes the need for decisive action, aligning with a growing cooperation between Iran and Saudi Arabia. The attendance of leaders like the Syrian President, Bashar al-Assad, prompts criticism due to accusations of war crimes in Syria.
Humanitarian organizations appeal for urgent protection of medical facilities across Gaza, citing the distressing situation at al-Shifa hospital. International bodies express concern over the safety of patients, medical staff, and the urgent necessity to halt attacks on hospitals, emphasizing adherence to the laws of war.
As the emergency summit unfolds, the world watches with anticipation for diplomatic resolutions to ease the crisis in Gaza and protect the lives of those caught in the crossfire.
