Medecins Sans Frontieres Criticizes Israel’s Strikes on Nasser Hospital

Nasser Hospital Complex Under Attack in Gaza, Prompting International condemnation

A devastating attack on the Nasser medical Complex, the primary remaining functional hospital in southern Gaza, has resulted in a notable loss of life and injuries, according to reports.The incident, which has sparked widespread condemnation, occurred earlier today.

sources report that at least 20 individuals were killed and approximately 50 injured in a series of strikes targeting the hospital and its surrounding areas. Among those fatally wounded was Mariam Abu Dagga, a freelance photojournalist who frequently collaborated with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Her tragic death leaves behind a son and highlights the dangers faced by journalists operating in conflict zones. it is also reported that at least four other journalists perished during the assault.

Details of the Incident

Reports indicate the attack comprised of consecutive strikes hitting various parts of the Nasser Medical Complex, including areas frequented by healthcare workers, rescue personnel, and journalists. The precise circumstances surrounding the attack are still under investigation. MSF has issued a statement unequivocally denouncing the attack and calling for the protection of medical facilities and personnel in accordance with international humanitarian law.

The Deteriorating Situation in Gaza

this incident further exacerbates the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. The Nasser Medical Complex was one of the few remaining functioning hospitals providing critical care to a large population. The disruption of this medical facility will inevitably lead to even greater suffering and loss of life.

The recent escalation of violence in Gaza has placed immense strain on the region’s healthcare infrastructure. The United Nations Office for the coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported in February 2024 that over 60% of Gaza’s healthcare facilities have been damaged or destroyed since the start of the conflict. This poses a major obstacle to providing essential medical services to those in need.

Key Incident Details	Date of Incident	Location	Reported Casualties
Attack on Medical Facility	August 25, 2025	Nasser Medical Complex, Gaza	At least 20 killed, 50 injured
Victims	August 25, 2025	Nasser Medical Complex, Gaza	Journalists, Healthcare workers, Rescue Workers

Did You Know? The intentional targeting of healthcare facilities and personnel is a grave violation of international humanitarian law.

The attack on the nasser Medical Complex underscores the urgent need for a ceasefire and a commitment to protecting civilians and vital infrastructure in Gaza. The international community must work collectively to ensure that those responsible for these atrocities are held accountable.

Pro Tip: Stay informed about the ongoing situation in Gaza by accessing reliable sources of information, such as the UN OCHA (https://www.unocha.org/) and reputable news organizations.

The Importance of Protecting Healthcare in Conflict Zones

The targeting of healthcare facilities and personnel during armed conflict is a recurring and deeply concerning issue. It not only deprives vulnerable populations of essential medical care but also undermines the principles of humanitarian law. international organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and MSF consistently advocate for the protection of healthcare workers and facilities in conflict zones.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What happened at Nasser Hospital? A series of strikes targeted the Nasser Medical Complex in Gaza, causing deaths and injuries.
• Who was Mariam Abu Dagga? She was a freelance photojournalist working with MSF who was killed in the attack.
• Is nasser Hospital still functioning? The attack has severely impacted the hospital’s capacity to provide care, specifically as one of the last remaining functional medical centers.
• What is MSF’s stance on this attack? MSF strongly condemns the attack and calls for the protection of medical facilities and staff.
• What is the current humanitarian situation in Gaza? The situation is dire, with over 60% of healthcare facilities damaged or destroyed.

Share your thoughts! What steps do you believe the international community should take to address the ongoing crisis in Gaza? Leave a comment below.

What specific international humanitarian laws are being violated by the strikes near Nasser Hospital,according to MSF?

Immediate Concerns Following Rafah Operations

Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF),also known as Doctors Without Borders,has issued a strong condemnation of Israel’s military operations near adn impacting Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis,Gaza. The institution reports severe disruptions to medical care, endangering patients, staff, and the already fragile healthcare system. This criticism comes amidst escalating conflict and increasing concerns over the protection of medical facilities and personnel – a critical aspect of international humanitarian law.

The core of MSF’s concern revolves around the following:

Compromised Medical Services: The strikes and surrounding military activity have severely limited the hospital’s ability to function. Essential services like surgery, intensive care, and emergency response are drastically curtailed.

Patient and staff Safety: Reports indicate patients are unable to evacuate safely, and medical staff are forced to make impossible choices regarding triage and care. The risk of direct harm from strikes is a constant threat.

Forced Displacement of Patients: Many critically ill and wounded patients have been forced to relocate, often without adequate medical support during transit, exacerbating their conditions. This contributes to the growing gaza health crisis.

Damage to Infrastructure: While the extent of damage is still being assessed, initial reports suggest damage to vital hospital infrastructure, further hindering its operational capacity.

Detailed Account of the Situation at nasser Hospital

MSF teams on the ground have described a harrowing situation. The hospital, already overwhelmed with casualties from ongoing conflict, was struggling to cope before the recent escalation. The Israeli military’s actions have compounded these challenges.

Here’s a breakdown of the key events and their impact:

1. Initial Strikes & Encirclement: Military operations began in the vicinity of Nasser Hospital on February 14, 2024, with reports of airstrikes and ground incursions. This led to the encirclement of the facility.
2. Forced Evacuations & Restrictions: The Israeli military ordered the evacuation of patients and staff, but safe passage was not guaranteed. Restrictions on movement further complicated the process.
3. Reports of Detentions: There have been credible reports of medical staff and patients being detained by Israeli forces,raising serious concerns about due process and potential violations of human rights.
4. Limited Access for Aid: The ongoing conflict and restrictions have severely limited access for humanitarian aid, including essential medical supplies, food, and water. This is creating a dire situation for those inside and around the hospital.

Violations of International humanitarian Law

MSF argues that the strikes and surrounding military activity constitute a violation of international humanitarian law, specifically the principles of:

Distinction: Failing to distinguish between military objectives and civilian objects, such as hospitals.

Proportionality: Launching attacks that cause excessive harm to civilians in relation to the anticipated military advantage.

Protection of Medical Personnel: Failing to protect medical personnel and facilities from attack.

These principles are enshrined in the Geneva Conventions and are legally binding on all parties to the conflict. MSF is calling for an self-reliant investigation into the events surrounding Nasser Hospital to determine whether war crimes have been committed.The organization emphasizes the need for accountability and adherence to laws of war.

The Broader Context: gaza’s Collapsing Healthcare System

The situation at Nasser Hospital is not isolated. It is indeed part of a broader pattern of attacks on healthcare facilities in Gaza, which have severely crippled the healthcare system.

Overwhelmed Hospitals: Gaza’s hospitals are operating at well over capacity, struggling to cope with the massive influx of wounded and sick patients.

Shortage of Supplies: There is a critical shortage of essential medical supplies, including antibiotics, painkillers, and surgical equipment.

Fuel Crisis: A lack of fuel threatens the operation of essential hospital equipment, such as generators and incubators.

Staff Burnout: Medical staff are working under immense pressure,facing exhaustion,trauma,and a constant risk to their own safety.

This systemic destruction of healthcare infrastructure is having a devastating impact on the population of Gaza, leading to preventable deaths and suffering. The Gaza Strip’s healthcare infrastructure is on the brink of collapse.

MSF’s Response and Calls for Action

MSF is continuing to provide medical care to those in need in Gaza,despite the immense challenges. The organization is calling for:

immediate Ceasefire: A cessation of hostilities to allow for the safe delivery of humanitarian aid and the protection of civilians.

Protection of Healthcare: Respect for international humanitarian law and the protection of medical facilities and personnel.

Unimpeded Access: Unrestricted access for humanitarian organizations to deliver aid and provide medical care.

* Accountability: