In a concerning development, Israeli tanks have positioned themselves outside Al Shifa Hospital, the main medical center in Gaza City. The move comes as Israeli forces continue their military campaign against Hamas, accusing the hospital of housing a headquarters for fighters who allegedly use patients as shields. However, Hamas denies this claim.

The current conflict between Israel and Hamas began after the Islamist Palestinian group's incursion into southern Israel on October 7th. Israel reports that approximately 1,200 people lost their lives in that attack, with 240 individuals taken hostage and brought to Gaza. Hamas' armed wing has now offered to release up to 70 women and children in exchange for a five-day truce.

The situation inside Gaza remains dire, with over 11,000 confirmed deaths due to Israeli bombardment, of which 40% are children, according to Gaza's medical authorities. Additionally, two-thirds of the population in the densely populated area have been left homeless, with Israel ordering the evacuation of the northern half of Gaza.

The besieged Al Shifa Hospital has been struggling to provide care amidst the ongoing conflict. Ashraf Al-Qidra, spokesperson for Gaza's health ministry, revealed that 32 patients, including three newborns, died in the previous three days due to the hospital's siege and a lack of power. The Israeli military stated that it is initiating a humanitarian effort to transfer incubators to Al Shifa but clarified that none had yet reached the facility.

U.S. President Joe Biden has expressed concerns about the situation, calling for the protection of hospitals in Gaza. In his comments at the White House, Biden emphasized the need for "less intrusive" action by Israel and stressed the importance of negotiations for the release of prisoners. Biden also mentioned ongoing engagement with the Qatari mediators in this regard.

Israel contends that Hamas exploits hospitals for military purposes. In an attempt to support their claim, the Israeli military released video and photos showing weapons allegedly stored in the basement of Rantissi Hospital, a pediatric hospital specializing in cancer treatment.

Meanwhile, fighting has erupted at al-Quds, another major hospital in northern Gaza, causing it to cease functioning. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported heavy gunfire around the hospital, impeding the evacuation of patients and staff.

Amidst the escalating violence, the Israeli military and security services claim to have killed several Hamas commanders and officials, including Mohammed Khamis Dababash, the alleged former head of military intelligence for the group.

The situation remains fluid, with conflicting reports of casualties. Hamas media claims that over 30 people were killed and scores injured in an Israeli airstrike on the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza. Israeli military spokespersons state they are currently verifying the details of this incident.

The international community continues to call for an end to the violence and the protection of civilians, particularly in hospitals. As negotiations and military actions unfold, the hope for a peaceful resolution remains uncertain.