An Israeli “double-tap” strike on Gaza’s Nasser Hospital killed at least 20 people, including four journalists, medical staff and a rescuer, according to Palestinian authorities. Pictured Left: AP freelancer Mariam Dagga, who was killed in the strike. Right: An Israeli airstrike in northern Gaza Strip Monday (AP Photos/Jehad Alshrafi/Leo Correa)
An Israeli strike on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis has killed at least 20 people, including four journalists, a member of Gaza’s Civil Defence, and medical staff, according to Palestinian authorities. The Palestinian Health Ministry said Israel carried out a “double-tap” strike, with the first missile followed by another moments later as rescuers rushed in.
“The (Israeli) occupation forces’ targeting of the hospital today and the killing of medical personnel, journalists, and civil defense personnel is a continuation of the systematic destruction of the health system and the continuation of genocide,” the ministry said. “It is a message of defiance to the entire world and to all values of humanity and justice.”
As per a spokesperson of Gaza’s Civil Defence, one rescuer was killed and seven others were wounded in the second strike as they responded to the scene.
Israeli Army Confirms Strike
Israel’s military later acknowledged carrying out “a strike in the area of Nasser Hospital” but did not provide details of its target. The army insisted it “does not target journalists as such.”
Nasser Hospital has been repeatedly struck during the 22-month war, with raids and bombardment leaving its wards in ruins.
Who Are The 4 Journalists Killed In The Attack?
Gaza’s Government Media Office listed the four journalists killed in the attack as: Reuters photojournalist Hossam al-Masri, Al Jazeera photojournalist Mohammed Salama, AP freelancer Mariam Abu Dagga and NBC News journalist Moaz Abu Taha.
The Associated Press said Dagga, 33, had been freelancing for the agency since the Gaza war began. She had recently reported on doctors at Nasser Hospital trying to save starving children. Reuters confirmed the death of its cameraman Hussam al-Masri, while another photographer, Hatem Khaled, was injured. Al Jazeera also confirmed the loss of its cameraman Mohammad Salama.
Calls For Accountability
The killings brought fresh international condemnation. Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur, wrote on X: “Rescuers killed in line of duty. Scenes like this unfold every moment in Gaza, often unseen, largely undocumented. I beg states: how much more must be witnessed before you act to stop this carnage? Break the blockade. Impose an Arms Embargo. Impose Sanctions.”
(With inputs from agencies)
Source: AP Freelancer, Reuters Photojournalist Among 20 Killed In Israeli 'Double-Tap'
