18 nations condemn Israeli strike on Gaza hospital

Saudi Arabia and 17 other Arab and Islamic countries have strongly condemned an Israeli airstrike on Nasser Medical Complex in Gaza, which killed six people, including a surgeon and a teenage patient.

The attack struck the hospital’s surgical wing in Khan Younis early Thursday, killing patients and medical staff and injuring dozens, according to hospital officials. The strike also caused extensive damage to operating rooms and patient wards.

In a joint statement issued on Saturday, the countries described the attack as a violation of international humanitarian law, which provides special protection to medical facilities and healthcare workers.

The statement was also signed by Egypt, Jordan, Turkiye and Qatar. The foreign ministers expressed grave concern over continued Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians, including displaced people sheltering in tents.

They also warned that restrictions on humanitarian aid, temporary shelters and medical supplies were worsening Gaza’s humanitarian crisis as winter approaches.

The ministers urged Israel to respect the ceasefire, protect civilians and medical facilities, and allow the safe and uninterrupted delivery of sufficient humanitarian assistance.

They also called on the United States and the Board of Peace to step up efforts to ensure Israel fulfils its commitments under the Gaza peace plan.