Biden expresses concern over Hamas's misuse of hospitals; medical facilities must be protected

On Monday, U.S. President Joe Biden referred to Israeli documentation and evidence of Hamas's misuse of hospitals in Gaza City, stating, "I am in contact with the Israelis and expect less interventionist actions regarding hospitals." Biden emphasized the necessity of protecting civilians, especially hospitals and medical centers, adding, "Our negotiations through the Qataris and other efforts for the release of hostages from Hamas captivity are ongoing, and I am hopeful about this event." On the same day, the Israeli army released photos and complete evidence showing how Hamas's 'terrorist' forces used the 'Rantisi' hospital as a place to hold hostages, store weapons, and coordinate their military operations. An American official also mentioned that Hamas has established a command center beneath the Shifa hospital. The spokesperson for the U.S. State Department reiterated during a press conference that hospitals should not be caught in the crossfire as they are civilian structures, but Hamas uses them as their command headquarters. Matthew Miller specified that instead of asking Israel not to attack hospitals, Hamas should be asked to leave the hospitals. An Israeli army spokesperson had also stated two weeks ago: "When medical facilities are used for terrorist purposes, these centers lose their immunity against defensive attacks under international law."