At least 20 civilians, including five journalists, were killed after an Israeli strike hit Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, on Monday. The incident, one of the deadliest attacks on a medical facility since the start of the 22-month conflict, has drawn sharp international criticism.

Strike Kills Journalists and Civilians

Among the dead were five journalists working for major outlets including the Associated Press, Al Jazeera, Reuters, and Middle East Eye. Most were contractors or freelancers reporting from Gaza.

According to Gaza health officials, one strike hit the hospital’s upper floor housing operating rooms and doctors’ residences, killing two. A second strike on the stairwell killed 18 more. Nearly 80 others were wounded, including many in the hospital’s courtyard.

IDF Response

In a statement, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said it does not intentionally target civilians and claimed Hamas operatives were using civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, as shields.

“Earlier today, IDF troops carried out a strike in the area of Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis. We are aware of reports that harm was caused to civilians, including journalists. The IDF does not intentionally target civilians,” said BG Effie Defrin, IDF spokesperson.

Defrin blamed Hamas for “creating impossible fighting conditions” and reiterated that the group still holds 50 hostages. He added that a probe has been launched and the IDF “regrets any harm to uninvolved individuals.”

Netanyahu Calls Incident “Tragic Mishap”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office described the strike as a “tragic mishap,” confirming that the military was investigating. Israeli media later reported that troops may have targeted what they thought was a Hamas surveillance camera on the hospital roof, a location often used by reporters for live broadcasts.

Outrage From Media Outlets

The Associated Press and Reuters issued a joint letter demanding an explanation.
“We are outraged that independent journalists were among the victims of this strike on the hospital, a location protected under international law,” the statement said, stressing that reporters were performing their professional duty.

Israel has barred most foreign journalists from independently entering Gaza since the start of the war, allowing only limited, military-organised visits.

Source: NDTV
Image Source: Google | Image Credit: Respective Owner