According to two undisclosed sources speaking to Reuters, prosecutors from the International Criminal Court (ICC) have conducted interviews with staff from Gaza’s two major hospitals. This marks the first confirmation of ICC investigators engaging with medical professionals regarding potential crimes in the Gaza Strip. The interviews, held at Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City and Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, aimed to gather testimony on events surrounding these facilities. While details remain scarce due to concerns for witness safety, one source suggested that the hospitals’ circumstances could be integrated into the ICC’s broader investigation. The ICC’s office of the prosecutor refrained from commenting on specific operational matters to safeguard the well-being of victims and witnesses. The investigation by the ICC encompasses actions by both sides in the conflict, including the Oct. 7 attack initiated by Hamas fighters and Israel’s subsequent offensive in Gaza. Israeli officials and Gaza hospital representatives declined immediate comment on the matter. Throughout the conflict, Gaza’s main hospitals have been targets of Israeli military operations, amid accusations of Hamas using them for military purposes, which Hamas and medical personnel deny. Palestinian officials have recently called for investigations after mass graves were discovered at Nasser Hospital. Israel has denied allegations of war crimes, asserting its actions were justified by the presence of Hamas fighters. The protection of hospitals during wartime, as stipulated by international treaties, underscores the gravity of attacks on such facilities under ICC jurisdiction.
International criminal court interviews gaza hospital staff for possible crimes.
