Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari confirmed the detention of numerous Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters, along with security officials and commanders, during an extensive raid into Gaza‘s primary hospital.

The operation, which commenced early Monday at Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, alleges the hospital’s involvement in a tunnel network utilized by Palestinian fighters.

According to Hagari, Israeli troops have reportedly killed hundreds of fighters and detained over 500 suspects, marking the largest detainment since the conflict’s onset nearly six months ago.

Special forces purportedly employed “deception tactics” to surprise and neutralize the fighters, dealing significant blows to Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Among those captured were high-ranking military figures from both factions.

Despite the military’s claims, there has been no immediate response from Hamas or Islamic Jihad. Al Shifa Hospital, once Gaza’s largest healthcare facility and now operating at diminished capacity, has been a site of contention.

Israel faced criticism for a previous raid on the hospital last November, alleging its dual use for military purposes.

Hamas has consistently denied such claims, stating that the hospital primarily serves patients and displaced civilians. Hamas spokespersons have accused Israel of targeting civilians and committing war crimes.

The conflicting narratives surrounding the raid highlight the ongoing tensions and complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

While Israeli forces assert the necessity of the operation to neutralize threats, Hamas counters with allegations of civilian targeting and unlawful military actions.