French far-right politician decries human tragedy at Gaza hospital

By Nur Asena Erturk

The human tragedy at a hospital in Gaza “is unacceptable,” a far-right French politician said Wednesday.

"The human tragedy at the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza where hundreds of civilians, mostly Palestinian women and children were dead, is unacceptable," Marine Le Pen wrote on X.

She urged an independent UN investigation to reveal the "authors of this crime."

Left-wing politician Jean-Luc Melenchon expressed support for Gaza and wrote on the platform that "France must support UN Secretary-General's suggestion of 'humanitarian cease-fire' in Gaza. It is urgent."

At least 471 people were killed in an airstrike on the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza late Tuesday, according to authorities.

Israel denied responsibility for the attack.

A new wave of conflict broke out Oct. 7 when Hamas launched Operation Al-Aqsa Flood -- a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea and air. The Palestinian group said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

At least 3,478 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip, while the Israeli figure stands at more than 1,400.