Israeli Airstrike Hits Gaza’s Nasser Hospital, Killing Six
|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Gaza City, November 13, 2026: The humanitarian and security situation in the Gaza Strip has come under renewed international scrutiny following an Israeli airstrike on a building inside Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis. At least six Palestinians, including a surgeon and a 13-year-old boy, were reported killed, while at least 28 others were injured, according to reports published on November 13.
The incident has raised serious concerns about the protection of medical facilities and civilians, particularly as the region continues to experience violence despite an existing ceasefire arrangement.
Airstrike Damages Medical Facilities
According to reports, the strike hit a building associated with the surgery department at Nasser Hospital, one of the major medical facilities in southern Gaza.
Medical personnel reported significant damage to hospital infrastructure, with debris, damaged ceilings and disrupted medical operations affecting the facility.
The incident has placed additional pressure on healthcare workers who are already dealing with shortages of essential medicines, medical equipment and other supplies.
A surgeon was among those killed in the attack, highlighting the risks faced by medical professionals working in conflict-affected areas.
The reported death of a 13-year-old boy has also renewed concerns over the safety of children living in the Gaza Strip.
Israel’s Position and the Wider Security Situation
Israel has said that its military operations are directed against Hamas militants and security threats.
In this particular incident, Israel said it targeted Hamas militants but did not initially provide publicly available evidence supporting that specific claim.
The continuing dispute over military operations, civilian protection and the status of the ceasefire has made the situation increasingly difficult for international mediators.
The incident also demonstrates the fragile nature of the existing ceasefire arrangements.
Humanitarian Crisis Continues
The destruction of infrastructure has created serious challenges for Gaza’s population.
Hospitals are operating under difficult conditions, while access to electricity, clean water, medical supplies and safe accommodation remains a major concern.
Humanitarian organisations have repeatedly warned that restrictions on the delivery of essential supplies could worsen the situation, particularly during the winter season.
More than two years of conflict have severely damaged residential buildings, hospitals, roads and other essential infrastructure.
Displaced families continue to face difficulties accessing adequate shelter and healthcare.
International Concerns Over Civilian Protection
The attack has renewed international attention on the protection of hospitals and medical workers during armed conflicts.
International humanitarian law provides special protection to medical facilities and healthcare personnel. Parties to a conflict must respect these protections, subject to the applicable legal conditions.
The United Nations and humanitarian organisations have continued to call for civilian protection, humanitarian access and the implementation of ceasefire commitments.
What Happens Next?
The incident is likely to increase diplomatic pressure on the parties involved to prevent further escalation and protect civilian infrastructure.
Humanitarian agencies are also expected to continue demanding access to medical supplies, emergency assistance, and safe shelter.
The situation remains uncertain, and developments on the ground will be important in determining whether the ceasefire can be maintained.
Conclusion: The strike on Nasser Hospital has highlighted the continuing humanitarian challenges facing Gaza. The deaths of medical personnel and children underline the importance of civilian protection, uninterrupted healthcare services and renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further violence.
Source: Associated Press and Reuters reporting, November 12–13, 2026.
