Israeli Forces Attack Gaza Hospital, Sparking Fire; Parliament Approves 2025 Wartime Budget

Israeli forces attacked the Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, Gaza, on March 23, 2025, causing a fire. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, the attack targeted the surgical building, resulting in casualties, including a 16-year-old and Ismail Barhoum, a Hamas official. The Israeli military confirmed the strike, stating it targeted a Hamas militant operating within the hospital complex and that the attack was carried out with precision to minimize damage. Simultaneously, Israel launched an offensive in Rafah, urging residents to evacuate. On the same day, Israel's parliamentary finance committee approved the 2025 state budget, totaling 756 billion shekels ($203.5 billion). The defense budget will reach a record 110 billion shekels. The approval followed a 13-hour debate. The budget includes tax hikes aimed at preventing an unsustainable deficit amid ongoing military conflicts. Opposition members have criticized the budget, citing a lack of transparency and potential for further credit rating downgrades.