Taghreed Saadeh
The Israeli airstrike on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza, which resulted in the deaths of five Palestinian journalists working for international media outlets, has sparked a wave of global condemnation. The victims included Hussam al-Masri (Reuters), Mohammed Salama (Al Jazeera), Mariam Abu Daqa (Associated Press), Moaz Abu Taha (freelancer), and Ahmad Abu Aziz (Middle East Eye).
In a brief statement, the Israeli military confirmed conducting a strike in the vicinity of Nasser Hospital, claiming it targeted Hamas military structures . The military expressed regret for any harm to uninvolved individuals and announced an internal investigation into the incident.
However, reports from Reuters and The Guardian indicated that the initial strike was followed by a second attack approximately 15 minutes later, as rescuers and journalists were responding to the scene. This sequence of events has raised concerns about a “double-tap” strike, which is prohibited under international humanitarian law.
International organizations have swiftly condemned the attack. Reporters Without Borders described it as a “blatant assault on press freedom,” calling for an independent investigation under the auspices of the United Nations. The Committee to Protect Journalists demanded an immediate halt to the targeting of media personnel, emphasizing that the killing of five journalists in a medical facility constitutes a severe breach of international norms. The United Nations expressed “shock” over the attack, labeling it a “clear violation” of international law. The European Union urged Israel to adhere to international standards protecting medical and media personnel, while France’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs deemed the targeting of journalists “absolutely unacceptable.”
Analysts said that the Israeli military’s admission of responsibility was likely an attempt to contain the international backlash, particularly given the involvement of journalists from prominent global news agencies. The admission, coupled with expressions of “regret” and the announcement of an internal inquiry, may be seen as efforts to mitigate political and media pressure without committing to accountability or reparations.
The incident underscores the precarious situation of journalists in Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for the international community to translate widespread condemnation into concrete actions. Proposals include the establishment of a United Nations peacekeeping force to protect Palestinian civilians and ensure the sustained delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, in accordance with Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The question remains: will the international community take decisive steps to address these grave violations, or will it await further atrocities before acting?
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