The streets of Gaza were lined with mourning families as the Red Crescent, alongside local civil society groups, organized funerals for over 100 Gazans whose bodies were recently returned by Israel. The emotional ceremonies marked a poignant moment for a community seeking closure amid ongoing tensions.
The bodies had been held at Al Shifa Hospital, Gaza’s largest medical facility, following a military operation conducted by Israeli forces on November 16. During the operation, the radiology department of the hospital sustained damage, according to reports from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA). The Israeli military stated that they discovered a tunnel shaft used by Hamas within the hospital compound.
Delays in releasing the bodies occurred as the Israeli army conducted checks to identify potential Hamas members among the deceased. The return of the bodies has been a critical step for families awaiting the opportunity to lay their loved ones to rest.
Community leaders and humanitarian organizations have expressed concern over the impact of military operations on medical facilities and civilian infrastructure. The funerals underscored the profound human cost of the ongoing conflict and the pressing need for measures to protect non-combatants.
As the region grapples with the complexities of security and humanitarian challenges, international observers emphasize the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law and safeguarding essential services for the population.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
