Israel strikes Gaza hospital twice – at least 20 dead, including five journalists

The Double Strike on Nasser Hospital

On Monday, Israel’s military hit Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza twice within just 15 minutes. The first bomb destroyed the upper floor, killing Reuters journalist Hussam al-Masri and several others. As rescuers and colleagues rushed to help, a new bomb struck the same spot, claiming an additional 20 lives—including four more journalists.

Footage from AlGhad TV captures the moment when photographers and civil defense workers in orange vests raise their hands to shield themselves—seconds before the explosion hits.

World Condemnation and Israel’s Response

The rare “double tap” attack has triggered condemnation from several world leaders. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy wrote: “Civilians, health workers, and journalists must be protected. We need an immediate ceasefire.”

French President Emmanuel Macron called the attack “unbearable,” while Donald Trump said he was “not happy” about the situation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as a “tragic mishap” and promised an investigation. Nevertheless, critics point out that 88% of previous Israeli investigations into possible war crimes in Gaza have been closed without holding anyone accountable.

The Legacy of the Journalists

Among the dead was Associated Press’s Mariam Abu Dagga, who had reported directly from the hospital’s chaotic operating rooms. She leaves behind a 13-year-old son and a legacy of courageous journalism. According to her colleagues, she did not want tears at her funeral—she wanted people to speak to her one last time before she was laid to rest.

Reuters and Al Jazeera have confirmed the loss of their staff members, while the Palestinian Journalists’ Syndicate calls the killing of media professionals an unacceptable eradication of press freedom.

A Press Under Siege

According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, at least 193 journalists have been killed in Gaza since October 2023—more than the global death toll of the past three years combined. International media have been denied access to the area, meaning the remaining local photographers and writers work under extreme danger.

Nasser Hospital, the last public hospital in southern Gaza, is now partially out of service. Gaza’s health ministry describes the attack as part of a “systematic destruction of the health system.”

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