Explosion at Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza: an investigation to elucidate responsibilities
October 17, 2023 will be remembered as one of the most tragic days in the history of Gaza, with the explosion that hit Al-Ahli Arab Hospital. While the Israeli authorities and Hamas blame each other, an investigation is underway to elucidate the circumstances of this event which cost the lives of hundreds of people.
According to a European military source, the explosion was caused by a failed shot launched from the Palestinian enclave. Satellite images show a hole measuring one meter by 75 cm in diameter, with an oblique inclination indicating a South-North orientation shot. The metal object found at the bottom of the hole suggests the use of a rocket with a charge of between 5 and 10 kg.
However, several hypotheses put forward by Hamas seem implausible. An air-to-ground strike from an Israeli fighter jet or drone would have left a larger crater, and the absence of debris around the point of impact calls into question the interception of a rocket attack by the Israeli army’s anti-missile system.
The investigation is focusing on the possibility that the explosion was the result of a Hamas or Islamic Jihad rocket going off course. With an error rate of 10%, it is likely that the explosion was due to a shot coming from Gaza. The dimensions of the hole and the damage observed are consistent with the use of rockets of approximately 107 mm, equipped with an explosive warhead of approximately 5 kg.
However, uncertainties persist regarding the human toll of the explosion. While the Gaza Ministry of Health speaks of “471 people” dead, American intelligence indicates a much smaller number, between 100 and 300 victims. The damage observed on site, as well as the dead/injured ratio, calls into question the figure put forward by the Palestinian authorities.
Pending the results of the investigation, the families of the victims and the international community await answers and hope that those responsible for this tragedy will be held to account. In the meantime, it is essential to emphasize the importance of protecting civilian infrastructure and medical areas during armed conflicts, in order to avoid such tragedies.
This explosion at Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza recalls the need for a peaceful and negotiated solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which would put an end to this spiral of violence and suffering for the populations on both sides. Only peace can guarantee the security and well-being of all.