Explosion destroys hospital in Gaza city, leaving hundreds dead

“Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza city was destroyed by a blast on Tuesday, October 17, leaving hundreds dead and injured. The hospital was packed with patients and people sheltering there. We strongly condemn the attack that represents a serious violation of international humanitarian law. This strike on a hospital reveals a total disregard for civilian lives. HI supports any demands for an immediate inquiry to establish the clear responsibilities behind the attack. We once again call on all parties to the conflict to set an immediate ceasefire and allow the safe passage of humanitarian aid into Gaza, since more than 2 million people are in urgent need of vital humanitarian aid. Humanitarian access to the West Bank should also be reopened. We express our deepest condolence to all the families of the victims of these 12 days of terrible carnage."
—Federico Dessi, HI's Middle East Programs Director