Global leaders respond to Gaza crisis: Biden expresses concerns, Netanyahu issues warning, and PRCS calls for urgent intervention

On Monday, the Palestinian Ministry of Health revealed that the toll of Palestinians killed by Israel has risen to 11,360 during the ongoing aggression in the Gaza Strip from October 7 to last Sunday evening, with 28,200 wounded, as reported by the Palestinian News and Information Agency (WAFA).

WAFA reports that the escalation of conflict in the Gaza Strip has rendered 25 out of 35 hospitals and 53 out of 72 primary health clinics out of service, either due to fuel shortages or as a result of bombings.

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) has issued a statement highlighting the alarming and rapid deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the northern governorates. It states civilians in these areas are facing critical challenges accessing emergency medical services due to ambulances being unable to reach the injured.

With most hospitals besieged or out of service amid severe shortages of fuel, medical supplies, and medicines, PRCS called on the international community, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement partners, and United Nations (U.N) agencies to intervene promptly per International Humanitarian Law, ensuring safe access for ambulances and medical missions to save lives in the Gaza Strip.

U.S. President Joe Biden conveyed his concerns over the situation in Gaza, expressing hope for less “intrusive action,” especially regarding hospitals. Amid negotiations over the release of prisoners facilitated by Qatari engagement, Biden emphasized the critical need to protect hospitals.

Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported the discovery of a room beneath Rantisi Hospital in Gaza where Israeli hostages were believed to have been held, revealing a calendar marking the days since the October 7 Massacre titled “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood,” the term used by Hamas for their attack on Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that any attempts to expand attacks on Israeli forces and civilians in the north would be met with strong retaliation, emphasizing that Israel has only revealed a fraction of its military capability. Netanyahu asserted the commitment to restoring security in both the north and south and vowed the elimination of Hamas while prioritizing victory in the ongoing conflict.

During a press briefing, U.S. State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller addressed concerns about morale amid protests, emphasizing the organization’s strength in diversity of views. Miller stated that Secretary of State Antony Blinken encourages dissent and values the input of department employees on various issues, including the current situation in Israel and its conflict with Hamas.