On Saturday, February 17th, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced a significant operation at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, resulting in the arrest of over 100 individuals suspected of terrorism. The operation saw participation from Israel’s elite Maglan and Egoz units, which also killed several operatives from Hamas in the vicinity of the hospital. The IDF’s action followed a week-long encirclement of the facility, prompted by intelligence suggesting that hostages had been held inside. Indeed, at least one released hostage corroborated this, revealing that she, along with more than two dozen others, were detained inside the hospital grounds.

IDF warfighters entered Nassar Hospital on Thursday after receiving intelligence reports that hostages were being held there and that the dead bodies of hostages may be found on the premises as well.

They Found an Arsenal

The IDF’s search uncovered an arsenal hidden within the supposedly safe confines of the healthcare facility, including mortars and grenades, affirming its use as a Hamas stronghold. Furthermore, medications bearing the names of hostages were found, adding a personal dimension to the evidence of Hamas’s activities in the hospital. Amidst these developments, the IDF refuted accusations of targeting the hospital’s generators, a claim that emerged following a Hamas statement blaming the IDF for patient deaths due to power outages. The military clarified that its forces had instructions to maintain the hospital’s operational integrity. They swiftly responded to the generator malfunction by coordinating repairs and even having the Navy’s Shayetet 13 commando unit bring in a generator to replace the broken machine.

The IDF put out the following statements:

“This morning, a report was received concerning the interruption of generator activity, resulting in the failure of electrical systems within the hospital. Contrary to the allegation, IDF troops did not target the generators. The troops were instructed to ensure the continuous functioning of the hospital. Despite the generator malfunction at the hospital, all vital systems continued to operate throughout the day based on the existing Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) system in the hospital.” 

This operation at Nasser Hospital is part of a broader IDF campaign across the Gaza Strip, characterized by widespread airstrikes and ground engagements with Hamas operatives. The IDF detailed several successful raids and confrontations, including the neutralization of a rocket-launching terror cell and close-quarters combat victories. These actions underscore the IDF’s commitment to dismantling Hamas’s military infrastructure and preventing further attacks from the group.

Some of the weapons found by IDF troops while searching Nassar Hospital in Khan Younis. Image Credit: IDF

IDF Focuses on Eliminating Hamas Operatives

The ongoing conflict, initiated by a large-scale Hamas assault on October 7th, has resulted in significant human costs, with the Gaza health ministry reporting thousands of casualties. However, the IDF maintains a focus on targeting Hamas operatives amidst efforts to mitigate civilian harm. This complex situation has precipitated a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with massive displacement and shortages exacerbating the plight of its residents. International responses include humanitarian aid efforts and Egypt’s construction of a barrier to prevent a potential influx of refugees from Gaza, highlighting the regional implications of the conflict.