Israeli airstrikes on a hospital in the Gaza Strip have resulted in the deaths of at least 20 individuals, including five journalists. This incident occurred at the Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis and has drawn widespread condemnation from various international leaders and organizations. The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, characterized the strike as a “tragic mishap,” stating that Israel values the work of journalists and civilians. An investigation into the incident is reportedly underway.
The strikes, which occurred in rapid succession, initially targeted a live broadcasting position operated by Reuters. According to Palestinian health officials, the first strike killed cameraman Hussam al-Masri. Witnesses reported that a second strike followed shortly thereafter, claiming the lives of other journalists, as well as rescue workers and medical staff who had rushed to the scene to provide assistance. Those killed included Mariam Abu Dagga, a freelance journalist for the Associated Press, and Mohammed Salama, who worked for Qatar-based broadcaster Al Jazeera.
In a statement, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) acknowledged the strike on the Nasser Hospital, expressing regret for any harm caused to uninvolved individuals. The IDF emphasized that it does not target journalists specifically and strives to minimize harm to civilians while ensuring the safety of its troops.
Reuters expressed deep sorrow over the loss of al-Masri and noted that Moaz Abu Taha, another journalist whose work had been published by the agency, was also killed. The agency is actively seeking information and has requested assistance from both Israeli and Gaza authorities to provide urgent medical aid for Hatem Khaled, a photographer who was wounded in the attack.
The Associated Press also conveyed its shock and sadness regarding the deaths of Abu Dagga and others, highlighting her history of reporting from the hospital, which included coverage of issues such as malnutrition among children in Gaza. The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate condemned the Israeli strikes, characterizing them as an assault on free media and a means to intimidate journalists from performing their duties.
Since the onset of the conflict on October 7, 2023, over 240 Palestinian journalists have reportedly been killed by Israeli fire in Gaza, according to the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate. Restrictions imposed by Israel have prevented foreign journalists from entering Gaza since the beginning of the war, leaving Palestinian journalists to report from the territory. Many of these journalists have longstanding relationships with international media organizations, including Reuters and Associated Press.
As the situation in Gaza continues to unfold, the international community remains focused on the impact of such incidents on both civilian lives and the freedom of the press.
