Israel Condemned Over Gaza Hospital Strike That Killed Journalists and Medics

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Israel is facing mounting international condemnation following twin strikes on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, that killed at least 20 people, including journalists, medical workers, and other civilians, on Monday.

According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, the attack involved a so-called “double-tap” strike—two consecutive explosions spaced minutes apart—targeting a hospital balcony frequently used by journalists for reporting.

Hospital spokesman and head of nursing, Dr. Mohammad Saqer, confirmed that five journalists and four health workers were among the victims. The journalists killed were identified as: Mohammad Salama (Al Jazeera), Hussam Al-Masri (Reuters contractor), Mariam Abu Dagga (Associated Press and Independent Arabic), Moath Abu Taha (freelancer), Ahmed Abu Aziz (freelancer)

Gaza’s Civil Defense said one of its rescue crew members also died. Video from the scene captured journalists and medics documenting the aftermath of the first strike when a second blast tore through the area, spreading panic.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) admitted responsibility for the strike. Spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said civilians, including journalists, had been harmed but insisted the IDF “does not intentionally target civilians,” blaming Hamas for operating in and around hospitals.

Israeli security sources told local media the army had identified a surveillance camera on the hospital roof allegedly used by Hamas, and approval was given to strike it. Two tank shells were fired—one hit the camera position, while the second struck first responders.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as a “tragic mishap,” pledging a full investigation. “Israel values the work of journalists, medical staff, and all civilians. The military authorities are conducting a thorough inquiry,” he said.

The attack has drawn sharp criticism from international bodies. The Foreign Press Association in Israel and the Palestinian Territories called it “one of the deadliest Israeli attacks on journalists since the Gaza war began,” describing it as a “watershed moment.”

UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the killings, urging that “civilians, journalists, and medical personnel be protected at all times.” The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) accused Israel of committing “unlawful killings” and possible war crimes, while Doctors Without Borders (MSF) denounced the strike as a direct assault on “the only partially functioning public hospital in southern Gaza.”

The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate labeled the attack a “heinous massacre,” alleging deliberate targeting of media workers.

Since the start of the Gaza war, the CPJ reports that 192 journalists have been killed, raising urgent concerns about press freedom, accountability, and Israel’s compliance with international humanitarian law.