Washington gave the green light for the invasion of the Al-Shifa medical complex in Gaza. This approval came from National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby, who promoted the theory that Hamas had a command center within the facility. Images showed that Israeli forces faced no resistance when entering the complex, confirming that Hamas elements were not present there. However, why did Israel invade Al-Shifa complex?
Information suggests that the green light for the incursion, despite the absence of Hamas fighters, aims for the following objectives:
- To pressure Hamas in negotiations for a truce and the exchange of civilian prisoners, particularly women and children, as a first phase.
- Washington wants Israel to achieve a symbolic victory; hence the promotion of the theory that Hamas leadership is located at Al-Shifa.
- This symbolic victory aims to advance negotiations toward a humanitarian ceasefire, especially since decision-makers in Washington realize that pushing Tel Aviv to accept a truce should be accompanied by an "Israeli achievement, even if merely symbolic."
- The entry into Al-Shifa Hospital is viewed by Washington as sufficient to spare the Israeli government embarrassment should it agree to a five-day ceasefire and the entry of fuel into the sector under UN supervision, which Hamas is requesting through mediators.
