The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have stated that individuals detained in Al-Shifa hospital during a recent military raid are being treated in accordance with international law. Responding to complaints from Al-Shifa medical staff about being forced to strip naked, the IDF explained that it is a standard procedure for terror suspects to hand over their clothes for searching to ensure they are not concealing any weapons or explosive devices. Detainees are reportedly given back their clothes when possible.
The IDF emphasized that they are only detaining individuals suspected of terrorist activity and releasing those who are not found to be involved. This comes as the military withdraws from Gaza's largest hospital, Al-Shifa, following a 14-day siege that has resulted in significant destruction of buildings and casualties.
According to Palestinian officials and witnesses, the siege has left bodies scattered across the Al-Shifa complex. The IDF claims that their troops have targeted Hamas militants, seized weaponry, and gathered intelligence documents during the operation. They also stated that efforts were made to minimize harm to civilians.
However, Gaza's Civil Defense has reported the discovery of at least 300 bodies at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. The organization highlighted the challenges in accurately determining the total number of casualties due to Israeli forces burying bodies within and around the hospital premises, as well as bulldozing nearby roads.
