Bosnian politician ‘unequivocally’ condemns ‘brutal attack’ on hospital in Gaza Strip

BELGRADE, Serbia 

Bosnia and Herzegovina's Bosniak member of the Presidential Council, Denis Becirovic, on Wednesday condemned the brutal attack on the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in northern Gaza that killed hundreds and injured many others.

"I unequivocally condemn the brutal attack on al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza, in which innocent Palestinian civilians, including many children and women, were killed. Attacks on hospitals, which are symbols of helping people, are attacks on humanity. Protection of medical personnel and health institutions, The provision of medical assistance to the wounded and sick is guaranteed by international human law," Becirovic said in a statement.

He added that it is in the interest of all humanity to stop shedding the blood of the innocent and halt conflicts in the Middle East.

At least 471 people were killed and 342 injured in an Israeli airstrike on the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza late Tuesday, according to the Gaza Health Ministry on Wednesday.

Israel has denied responsibility for the attack.

Gaza is already experiencing a dire humanitarian crisis with no electricity, while water, food, fuel and medical supplies are running out.

The conflict began Oct. 7 when Hamas initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood -- a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea and air.

Hamas said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

UN chief Antonio Guterres has called for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire” to ease the “epic human suffering.”

At least 3,478 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza. The figure in Israel stands at more than 1,400.