At least 15 people, including four journalists from internationally recognized media outlets, died following an Israeli air strike on Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza. The strike, which occurred earlier today, primarily targeted an area known for providing critical medical services. Reports indicate that among the deceased are a cameraman from Reuters and a freelancer with the Associated Press, alongside two other journalists affiliated with Al Jazeera and NBC.
The situation escalated with a secondary strike, which reportedly targeted first responders at the scene of the initial attack, as highlighted by the Hamas-run Civil Defence. Eyewitness accounts describe an atmosphere of panic, with grey smoke rising from the hospital premises, signifying significant destruction.
In video footage, scenes of chaos emerged as medical personnel rushed to assist the wounded, only to be met with another explosion. The toll from the strike includes one Civil Defence member, amplifying the tragedy of the day.
The Israeli military has yet to provide an official response to the incident, while the prime minister’s office has also refrained from commenting immediately. As the conflict continues to unfold, the loss of life, particularly among journalists, raises profound concerns about the safety of media personnel in conflict zones. The Associated Press expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Mariam Dagga, a 33-year-old freelance journalist, while Reuters mourns the loss of cameraman Husam al-Masri. The incident underscores the growing risks faced by reporters who strive to document the impacts of war on civilian life.
