The dramatic explosion which hit the Ahli Arab hospital in Gaza on October 17, 2023 continues to raise many questions. While the Israeli authorities and Hamas blame each other, a European military source provided France 24 with information that disputes the scenarios put forward by Hamas.
According to this source, the explosion was due to a failed shot launched from the Palestinian enclave. Analyzes based on satellite images revealed that an inclined metal object in the impact hole indicated a south-north orientation shot. The rocket’s explosive load was estimated between 5 and 10 kg, which corresponds to the dimensions of the hole observed.
However, the damage seen around the point of impact does not correspond to typical Israeli airstrikes. Surrounding buildings and vehicles remained intact, except for windows shattered by the explosion. Additionally, no traces of rocket or missile debris were found at the scene.
Other scenarios, such as intercepting Hamas rocket fire or tampering with explosives, were discussed, but were ruled out due to a lack of concrete evidence. The most likely theory remains that of a Hamas or Islamic Jihad rocket which deviated from its trajectory.
However, this new information also raises questions about the human toll announced. According to the Gaza Ministry of Health, 471 people were killed, while American intelligence estimates a death toll between 100 and 300. The European military source questions this figure due to the high ratio of dead to injured, as well as the conditions of the explosion which occurred in the open air, reducing the power of the blast.
In conclusion, the explosion at the Ahli Arab hospital in Gaza continues to raise many questions. While responsibilities are still being investigated, information provided by a European military source calls into question the scenarios put forward by Hamas. However, the exact circumstances of this tragic explosion have yet to be determined.