The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem has condemned violent attacks on Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City. It is the oldest and only Christian hospital in the territory, and was targeted twice in a single day, leaving seven people dead.
According to a statement from the diocese, the assaults began early Sunday morning,17th August, when a local armed band entered the hospital demanding medical treatment for one of their injured fighters. Medical staff treated the man promptly, but after his discharge, the group reportedly set fire to the hospital morgue and staff prayer room while blocking firefighters from extinguishing the flames.
The blaze came dangerously close to the hospital’s emergency tents, forcing frightened doctors, nurses, and patients to evacuate. Though the fire was eventually brought under control, both the morgue and prayer room sustained severe damage.
The diocese said later that same day, a second armed group stormed the hospital grounds, firing into the air and creating panic for nearly two hours. The disturbance drew the attention of an Israeli drone, which, without warning, reportedly launched a strike into the hospital compound. Seven people were killed and five others severely wounded.
The diocese strongly condemned the attacks, warning against the use of sacred spaces of healing as battlegrounds.
“We implore the Occupying Power to fulfill its duty of protecting our hospital and other medical facilities in Gaza,” the statement read, citing protections under the Fourth Geneva Convention.
Leaders of local clans and tribes later visited the hospital to show solidarity, condemning the violence. The diocese of Jerusalem also called on Christians worldwide to join in prayer and advocacy for the hospital’s staff and for all medical workers serving under fire in Gaza.
“As a similar display of solidarity, we invite Christians and all people of goodwill around the world to pray and advocate on behalf of the courageous staff of our hospital… that they may continue Christ’s compassionate healing ministry without further assaults or disruptions,” the statement concluded.
Al-Ahli Arab Hospital, run by the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, has long been a place of refuge and care for people of all faiths in Gaza.
Church leaders have condemned the attacks.
Most Rev Michael Jackson, Archbishop of Dublin said: "Such an attack on a place of sanctuary for those who are ill and injured is an affront to human dignity for everyone who holds with the sacredness of life. We stand in prayerful solidarity with those who work in the hospital and those who seek treatment there. Need and compassion connect us across the world."
Rt Rev Rosie Frew, Moderator of the Church of Scotland said: "...we stand in solidarity with the staff of the Hospital and pray for them at this time that they might continue ‘Christ's compassionate healing ministry."
