On 13 February 2024, in Khan Younis, events were part of the intense Israeli military offensive in southern Gaza, centered especially around Nasser Hospital.

Israeli snipers shot and killed at least three people at Nasser Hospital. The hospital had already been under siege for weeks, since the January 21st. The hospital and surrounding area were active combat zones, with: ongoing fighting between Israeli forces and Palestinian armed groups. Severe restrictions on movement (people trapped inside)

The situation was escalating toward a major development: Evacuation orders were issued around that time (13–14 Feb) for displaced civilians sheltering inside the hospital. The main focus of Israel’s ground offensive at that stage of the war Heavily bombarded and largely encircled.

Timeline of the siege and the occupation

On 21 January, medical staff reported that the hospital was surrounded by Israeli forces. On 23 January, the Israeli army sent evacuation orders to the residents of blocks 107 to 112, which include Nasser hospital. From that day, the hospital was in the centre of intense fighting and was considered by the medical staff inside to be under siege. No one could enter or leave the hospital without risking their lives and ambulances were denied access.

From 8 February, MSF staff reported sniper fire targeting Nasser hospital, resulting in several deaths and injuries. On 13 February, the Israeli army issued an evacuation order for displaced people who had taken refuge inside the facility but said medical staff, their families, patients and one caretaker per patient were allowed to remain inside the hospital.

14 Feb: evacuation of civilians from Nasser Hospital begins.

15 Feb: Israeli forces storm the hospital after shelling inside it. Patients who cannot be moved and doctors. They have been occupying it during 6 weeks.

1 April 2024: Israeli forces withdrew from Khan Younis, including Nasser Hospital, after a prolonged ground operation in the area.

21 April 2024: Gaza Civil Defense teams reported the first mass grave at Nasser Hospital after the withdrawal.

During the following days (22–23 April 2024), additional graves were uncovered. Hundreds of bodies were reported recovered. One part buried during the siege, another part killed during the occupation, sometimes handcuffed or with their IV drip in their arms.