Hamas Used Gaza Hospital as Command Center, U.S. Intelligence Reports

Hamas and Islamic Jihad, terrorist organizations recognized by the European Union, the United States, and other countries, have utilized the Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza as a command center and weapons depot. Several hostages taken during Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7 were also held there, according to a declassified U.S. intelligence report cited by American media, as reported by Radio Liberty.

Militants from Hamas and Islamic Jihad abandoned the hospital and its underground bunkers just days before they fell under Israeli military control, destroying documents and electronic devices, according to an American official familiar with the report. The conclusions are said to be based on data from both U.S. and Israeli intelligence.

The Israeli Defense Forces’ operation to clear Hamas militants from the Al-Shifa hospital has garnered international attention and drawn criticism from human rights organizations for the alleged unjustified use of military force against a civilian target. Israel contends that the hospital and its subterranean structures are being used to manage the operations of Hamas militants, thereby making it a legitimate target for attacks. Subsequently, tunnels were discovered beneath the medical complex, which, according to Israeli officials, were utilized by Hamas and Islamic Jihad.

The definitive U.S. intelligence report sent to Congress members reaffirms preliminary findings that the White House has provided support for Israeli operations at the Al-Shifa hospital.