Four Journalists Killed in Israeli Strike on Gaza’s Nasser Hospital

Four journalists were killed in an Israeli strike on Nasser Hospital in the southern Gaza Strip, according to reports.

The journalists killed were identified as Hossam al-Masri, a Reuters photojournalist; Mohammed Salama, a photojournalist with Al Jazeera; Mariam Abu Daqa, a journalist who contributed to several outlets including The Independent Arabic and Associated Press; and Moaz Abu Taha, a journalist with NBC network.

A hospital spokesman told Al Jazeera that at least 14 people were killed in the attack on the emergency department. Palestinian health officials later reported the death toll at 15, including four journalists and one rescue worker.

Witnesses said the strikes occurred in two stages. An Israeli explosive drone hit the hospital rooftop, killing one journalist. As rescue workers, journalists, and others rushed to the site, an airstrike followed, causing more casualties. Reuters reported that its live feed from Nasser Hospital, operated by al-Masri, cut off at the moment of the first strike.

Neither the Israeli army nor Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office have commented on the hospital attack.

The Gaza Government Media Office said that 244 journalists have been killed in Israeli strikes since October 7, 2023, when hostilities began in the enclave.

The strike comes as Israel escalates operations in southern Gaza. Last week, Netanyahu approved plans to take control of the entire Gaza Strip and defeat Hamas. According to Israel’s army radio, Galei Tzahal, the offensive may continue until 2026, with up to 130,000 reservists mobilized at its peak.

Egypt and Qatar have condemned the plan and presented Hamas with a ceasefire proposal that includes the release of hostages and prisoners. Hamas accepted the initiative, but Israel has not responded.