Editor's note: This story has been updated with additional comments from the Israeli military.
In a tragic turn of events, a massive explosion at a hospital in Gaza City has reportedly led to the death of hundreds of Palestinians.
What Happened: A powerful blast shook a Gaza City hospital filled with injured people and Palestinians seeking refuge on Tuesday. The Hamas-run Health Ministry stated that the explosion resulted in the death of at least 500 people. While Hamas blames an Israeli airstrike for the destruction, the Israeli military responded, saying that a misfired rocket by Palestinian militants was the cause of the incident at the hospital, according to AP News.
The Israeli defense forces stated that at the time of the explosion, Palestinian militants launched a flurry of rockets close to the hospital. "Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is responsible for the failed rocket launch," the IDF stated.
Images shared on social media depict extensive damage and bodies amid the rubble, although independent verification of these images is still underway, the AP reports.
Multiple hospitals in Gaza City have become temporary shelters for hundreds of people following evacuation orders issued by Israel for city dwellers and those in adjacent areas. These shelters are increasingly under threat as the Israel-Hamas conflict escalates.
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Why It Matters: The Gaza Health Ministry said the conflict has so far resulted in over 2,778 deaths and 9,700 injuries, according to the AP.
Efforts are underway to provide essential supplies to the war-affected civilians. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has secured a commitment from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss mechanisms for aid delivery. An agreement is still pending.
This catastrophic event follows a recent pledge of support for Israel from President Joe Biden. Despite cautioning Israel against occupying Gaza territory again, Biden affirmed his backing of the country during a "60 Minutes" interview.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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