Israeli double strike on Gaza hospital - what we know
A double Israeli strike on a hospital in Gaza killed 20 people including journalists and health workers, according to various outlets, including the World Health Organization and the Hamas-run health ministry.
At least one person was killed in an initial strike, and others in a second attack minutes later as rescuers and journalists attended the scene at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis.
The five deceased journalists worked for international organizations including the Associated Press, Reuters, Al Jazeera, and Middle East Eye.
Later on Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu characterized the incident as a tragic mishap that Israel deeply regrets, and stated that military authorities were conducting a thorough investigation.
How the Attack Unfolded
The first strike hit around 10:00 local time, according to medical personnel.
Mass panic... chaos ensued, as described by a British medical professional at the hospital treating patients in the intensive care unit. Approximately 10 minutes later, a second explosion occurred at the same site.
The hospital's emergency department and surgical unit were significantly impacted, with the World Health Organization confirming the destruction of emergency exits.
Video footage captured moments following the first strike showed emergency workers responding while journalists filmed the incident. A subsequent strike targeted these individuals, igniting horrific scenes.
Who Were the Victims?
The slain journalists have been identified, but details on the other victims are limited. The Hamas-run health ministry indicated that rescue workers and patients were among the deceased.
Husam al-Masri, a cameraman for Reuters, was struck while operating a live TV feed.
Mariam Dagga, a 33-year-old freelance journalist for the Associated Press, regularly reported from the hospital. She leaves behind a son.
Mohammad Salama, who worked for Al Jazeera, was engaged to another journalist, Hala Asfour.
Ahmed Abu Aziz and Moaz Abu Taha, associated with Middle East Eye, also fell victim.
Israel does not permit international news organizations to operate freely in Gaza, relying heavily on local reporters.
What Does Israel Say?
The Israeli Defense Forces initially acknowledged the strike near Nasser Hospital. Official responses throughout the day lacked in detail, attempting to address growing backlash.
Wider Reaction
International leaders and organizations reiterated calls for accountability regarding the journalists' deaths and the safety of medical personnel. UN Secretary General António Guterres condemned the killings, emphasizing the risks faced by journalists and medical staff in conflict zones.
