An Israeli airstrike on Nasser Hospital in the southern Gaza Strip resulted in the deaths of at least 20 individuals, including five journalists. The attack, which occurred on October 16, 2023, has drawn widespread condemnation from international officials and media organizations.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as a “tragic mishap,” emphasizing that Israel “values the work of journalists, medical staff, and all civilians.” He stated that the Israeli military is conducting an investigation into the attack. The strike took place during a period of heightened tensions, following the outbreak of conflict on October 7, 2023.
The initial airstrike targeted a live broadcasting position operated by Reuters on an upper floor of the hospital, leading to the death of cameraman Hussam al-Masri. Following the first strike, additional strikes hit the area, resulting in further casualties among journalists and rescue workers who responded to assist those injured.
Among the journalists who lost their lives were Mariam Abu Dagga, a freelance contributor to the Associated Press, Mohammed Salama from Al Jazeera, and Moaz Abu Taha, a freelance journalist who had collaborated with several news outlets. Ahmed Abu Aziz was also confirmed deceased. Additionally, photographer Hatem Khaled, a contractor for Reuters, sustained injuries during the attack.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) acknowledged their involvement in the strikes, expressing regret over any unintended harm to civilians. They reiterated that their operations aim to minimize harm to uninvolved individuals while ensuring the safety of IDF personnel.
In response to the attack, Reuters released a statement expressing devastation over the loss of al-Masri and Abu Taha. The agency is seeking further information regarding the incident and has requested assistance for Khaled’s medical needs. The Associated Press conveyed its shock at the deaths of Abu Dagga and the other journalists, highlighting her regular presence at the hospital for coverage of critical issues, including the plight of malnourished children.
The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate condemned the airstrikes, characterizing them as part of an ongoing “open war against free media.” The organization emphasized that these attacks aim to intimidate journalists and obstruct their ability to fulfill their professional duties. Since the onset of the current conflict, more than 240 Palestinian journalists have been killed by Israeli fire, according to the Syndicate.
Since the conflict began, Israel has restricted foreign journalists from entering the Gaza Strip. As a result, local Palestinian journalists have been the primary sources of reporting from the region, many of whom have longstanding relationships with international media outlets, including wire services like Reuters and the Associated Press.
The tragic loss of life at Nasser Hospital underscores the perilous conditions that journalists face in conflict zones. The international community continues to call for accountability and protection for those engaged in reporting from the front lines.
