NEW DELHI: An Israeli airstrike struck Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in southern Gaza early Thursday, killing at least six people, including a surgeon, and injuring around 20 others, according to Palestinian health authorities and civil defence officials.

The strike hit the hospital's surgical department, causing extensive damage to the building, including its surgical and intensive care facilities. Emergency workers and medical staff were seen evacuating injured patients through debris-filled corridors following the attack.

The deceased surgeon was identified as Rezik Abushira. The attack has further raised concerns over the safety of healthcare facilities and medical personnel in the war-affected Palestinian territory.

The Israeli military said the operation targeted a senior Hamas commander and other members of the group's armed wing allegedly operating within the hospital complex. Israeli authorities claimed that Hamas was using the facility for military activities, including operating command centres and storing weapons. These allegations could not be independently verified by Reuters.

The attack comes despite a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas that came into effect in October 2025. Both sides have accused each other of violating the truce, while diplomatic efforts to stabilise the situation remain challenging.

According to Gaza health authorities, more than 1,600 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks since the ceasefire agreement came into force, highlighting the continued fragility of the truce and the worsening humanitarian situation in the region.