Portugal condemns Israeli strike on Gaza hospital, calls for immediate ceasefire

Nasser Hospital is the last remaining partially functional hospital in southern Gaza, serving as a crucial lifeline for residents amid the ongoing conflict.

LISBON, Aug. 26 (Xinhua) -- Portugal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday condemned as "unacceptable" an Israeli attack on Nasser Hospital in Gaza, urging unconditional protection of civilians, journalists, and health workers, and calling for an immediate ceasefire.

"The Israeli attack on Nasser Hospital in Gaza is inqualifiable. Journalists, civilians, and health professionals must be protected unconditionally. A ceasefire is an imperative of the most elementary humanity and cannot be delayed any longer," the ministry said in a statement posted on social media platform X.

At least 20 Palestinians, including five journalists, were killed on Monday in the strike on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip.

Nasser Hospital is the last remaining partially functional hospital in southern Gaza, serving as a crucial lifeline for residents amid the ongoing conflict.

Portugal has consistently voiced concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and reiterated its support for international efforts to secure a ceasefire and ensure access to medical care and humanitarian aid. ■