GAZA STRIP — All public hospitals in northern Gaza are now officially out of service, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, following an escalation of Israeli military operations in the region. The announcement marks a grim milestone in what is being described as one of the most severe humanitarian crises to hit the enclave since the conflict began.

Indonesian Hospital Surrounded and Under Fire

The Indonesian Hospital in Beit Lahia, reportedly the last functioning public hospital in northern Gaza, came under heavy Israeli gunfire on Sunday, with military forces allegedly surrounding the facility. Health officials say access for patients, medical workers, and critical supplies has been completely cut off, making it impossible for the hospital to continue its operations.

“Medical services have collapsed in northern Gaza,” the health ministry said in a statement. “Patients are trapped without care, and healthcare workers are unable to carry out their duties amid ongoing attacks.”

‘Operation Gideon’s Chariot’ Escalates Conflict

The shutdown of northern Gaza’s hospitals comes in the wake of “Operation Gideon’s Chariot”, a newly launched Israeli military campaign that began on Saturday. The operation has triggered a surge in air and ground assaults throughout the Gaza Strip, particularly targeting areas in the north.

Israeli defense officials have not commented directly on the reports of hospital attacks, but the military has previously accused Hamas of using medical facilities for militant activities—claims that have been consistently denied by Palestinian health authorities.

Collapse of Healthcare Infrastructure

Prior to the latest offensive, Beit Hanoun Hospital and Kamal Adwan Hospital had already been destroyed or rendered non-operational. With the Indonesian Hospital now disabled, the health ministry confirmed that no public hospitals remain operational in northern Gaza.

Aid organizations have repeatedly warned of the catastrophic impact on civilians, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and the injured. The World Health Organization and United Nations agencies have called for immediate access to affected areas and a halt to hostilities around medical centers.

Hamas Proposes Hostage Deal Amid Crisis

Amid the intensifying military campaign, a Palestinian official reported that Hamas has proposed releasing nine hostages in exchange for a 60-day truce and the release of Palestinian prisoners. The proposal was made during recent indirect negotiations, although no formal response from Israel has been reported.

The situation remains fluid, and the humanitarian toll is expected to rise unless immediate action is taken to restore access to medical care and de-escalate the violence.

As the crisis deepens, international observers and humanitarian groups are urging all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians and medical infrastructure, in line with international law.