The tragic explosion that hit Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza on October 17, 2023 continues to be at the heart of debate and speculation. While the Israeli authorities and Hamas blame each other for this disaster, a European military source has provided new information which calls into question the scenarios put forward by the two parties.
According to this source, which relies on confidential information and exchanges with other intelligence services, the explosion was caused by a failed shot launched from the enclave. Satellite images show a “hole” approximately one meter by 75 centimeters in diameter and 30 centimeters deep. This suggests the use of a rocket with an estimated payload of between 5 and 10 kilograms. In addition, an inclined metal object in the hole indicates a South-North orientation shot.
An important point raised by the European military source is the absence of debris corresponding to a rocket or missile. Buildings and vehicles around the impact are intact, with only windows broken by the blast or fire. This calls into question the hypotheses of an air-to-ground strike coming from an Israeli fighter jet or drone, as well as that of an interception of a Hamas rocket attack.
By analyzing these elements, the European military source concludes that the explosion was probably due to a rocket fired from Gaza which lost its trajectory. The dimensions of the hole and the damage observed correspond to rockets used by Palestinian factions.
However, this new information also raises questions about the death toll. With an open environment, the blast from the explosion loses power, which makes the number of “471 dead” announced by the Gaza Ministry of Health unlikely. In addition, the dead/injured ratio of 1:4 raises doubts about the accuracy of the number of victims.
This new perspective challenges official accounts and highlights the need for a thorough investigation to establish the true circumstances of this tragedy. As blame continues to be assigned and tensions persist in the region, it is essential to shed light on this event in order to bring justice and transparency to all parties involved.