Kyrgyzstan condemns Gaza hospital bombing, calls for 'comprehensive investigation'

By Burc Eruygur

ISTANBUL (AA) - Kyrgyzstan has condemned Tuesday's deadly airstrike on Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in northern Gaza that killed hundreds and injured many others.

A statement by the Foreign Ministry on Wednesday denounced the strike and called for "a comprehensive investigation of this violation of international humanitarian law."

"The ministry underlines the importance of respect for the principles and norms of international humanitarian law, which entail the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure," it said.

The ministry called on the conflicting parties to take "comprehensive measures to prevent casualties and violence against civilian population, as well as to cease hostilities and immediately launch the negotiation process in order to achieve peace."

"The Kyrgyz Republic stands for the consolidation of efforts of the world community for a peaceful settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in accordance with the UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions," the release said.

At least 471 people were killed and 342 others injured in the Israeli airstrike on the medical facility, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Israel, however, has denied responsibility for the air raid.

The conflict began on Oct. 7 when Hamas initiated 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. It 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.

Gaza, under heavy bombardment and blockade, is experiencing a dire humanitarian crisis with no electricity, while water, food, fuel, and medical supplies are running out.