Médecins Sans Frontières suspends operations, Israel advances into Gaza amid ongoing conflict
The intensifying conflict in Gaza City has led non-governmental organization Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) to suspend its operations due to the surrounding of their treatment centers by Israeli troops. This development unfolds as Israeli forces, including tanks, continue to advance deeper into the city, causing significant casualties and damage.
Background
Following weeks of escalating strikes, the Israeli military launched a ground offensive on Gaza City on September 16, with tanks thrusting deeper into the urban center. The operation led to many injuries, with civilians and medical personnel report being trapped as a result of the relentless offensive. The incursion brings Israeli forces closer to the center and western parts of the city, where hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians are currently seeking shelter.
Recent Developments
On September 28, Israeli tanks advanced further into several densely populated neighborhoods of Gaza City, with health authorities unable to respond to dozens of desperate calls for help. Witnesses and medics reported that the tanks entered key residential areas including Sabra, Tal al-Hawa, Sheikh Radwan, and al-Nasser.
In parallel, the Israeli army has also reportedly demolished multistorey buildings in Gaza City, further displacing residents. Significant infrastructure damage is also reported, with hospitals among the targeted facilities. Al-Shifa Hospital, a major medical facility, experienced attacks that resulted in patients being forced to flee even while in urgent need of treatment.
Humanitarian Impact
The conflict has had a devastating impact on the civilian population, with thousands of Palestinians trapped as Israeli forces advance. Reports suggest that medical teams are struggling to respond to the situation due to the intensity of the bombardment and ongoing military operations.
Moreover, the Israeli army reportedly surrounded Al Helou Hospital, trapping more than 90 doctors and patients inside. Similarly, Gaza’s al-Quds Field Hospital reported Israeli forces preventing the entry and exit of patients. The hospital's oxygen station, critical for patient survival, has also been damaged.
International Reactions
While the conflict continues, international reactions vary. Former Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu called for the United Nations to act urgently on the situation in Gaza, highlighting that food, medicine, and water are being deliberately denied to over two million people enduring a catastrophe that defies humanity.
Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump presented a comprehensive plan to end the Gaza war in a UN meeting with Muslim leaders.
Conclusion
As the conflict continues unabated, the humanitarian situation in Gaza worsens with each passing day. The suspension of operations by Médecins Sans Frontières serves as a grim reminder of the escalating crisis. With the world's attention now firmly on the region, the international community's response will be crucial in determining the future course of this protracted conflict.