Aid Group Suspends Gaza Services Over Armed Presence

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) announced the suspension of non-critical medical operations at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza, citing "security breaches." This decision, made due to "serious security threats to our teams and patients," followed reports from patients and staff observing armed, masked individuals within parts of the hospital compound.

The aid organization noted an increase in such sightings after a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, with gunmen seen in areas outside MSF's operational zones. MSF teams reported intimidation and arbitrary arrests of patients, alongside suspicions of weapons movement.

Nasser Hospital, one of Gaza's few functioning medical facilities, has faced repeated attacks from armed groups. International law protects hospitals, but they can lose immunity if used for combatant activities. The Hamas-run interior ministry has stated police will be deployed to secure hospitals and address armed presences.

MSF will continue supporting critical services, but has ended support for pediatrics and maternity wards, including the neonatal intensive care unit. This suspension will significantly affect patient care, particularly for burn victims, as the health ministry takes over maternity services.