Nasser Hospital, located in southern Gaza, has publicly rejected allegations from Doctors Without Borders (MSF) regarding armed men posing a threat to staff and patients inside the hospital. The hospital argues that MSF's decision to stop non-life-saving work is inappropriate, attributing it to security breaches that supposedly endanger MSF's teams and patients. Nasser Hospital contends that the armed individuals mentioned by MSF are part of a civilian police force established to ensure the safety of patients and staff following a series of violent incidents, and labels MSF's assertions as inaccurate and irresponsible, calling them a serious risk to the hospital’s operations.

In a statement released on Sunday, Nasser Hospital emphasized that their security measures are meant for protection and not military activities, countering MSF's narrative. The ongoing tensions highlight a complex situation in Gaza, where healthcare facilities are caught in the crossfire of broader conflicts. The implications of MSF's actions could lead to decreased medical support for a population already ravaged by war and a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by interruptions to essential medical services.

MSF, on its part, has raised concerns regarding the detention of patients and alleged misuse of the hospital for weapon transportation, further complicating the narrative. The clash of statements between Nasser Hospital and MSF illustrates the challenging dynamics healthcare providers face in conflict zones, raising questions about safety, humanitarian ethics, and the provision of medical care under duress.