Israeli Attack on Gaza's Nasser Hospital: Death Toll Rises, Journalists Among the Dead

An Israeli attack on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, has claimed the lives of at least 22 people, including five journalists, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The 'double-tap' strike, a military tactic that targets first responders rushing to the scene, was caught on a live broadcast, sparking global outcry and raising questions about the deliberate targeting of journalists and medical staff.

The Attack

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched two strikes on Nasser Hospital on Monday, August 25, 2025. The first strike hit the hospital's fourth floor, and the second strike targeted the medical teams and journalists who had arrived to help the wounded. The hospital serves as the only functioning medical center in southern Gaza, catering to hundreds of thousands of Palestinians.

Among the dead were five journalists: Hussam Al-Masri, a Reuters photojournalist; Mohammed Salama, an Al Jazeera photojournalist; Mariam Abu Daqqa, a journalist with Independent Arabia and AP; Moath Abu Taha, a journalist with NBC News; and Ahmed Abu Aziz, a journalist with Quds Feed. The strike also claimed the lives of Mohammad Al-Habibi, a sixth-year medical student, and Imad Al-Shaer, a civil defense firefighter and father of three.

Israeli Defense Forces' Response

Israeli military spokesperson claimed that the journalists killed in the air strikes were not 'targets'. Rather, they suggested that six Hamas targets in the vicinity justified the attack. The IDF has ordered a probe into the incident, expressing regret for any harm to civilians and denying any intention to target journalists. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labeled the double-bombing a tragic mishap and assured that the military authorities are conducting a thorough investigation.

Global Outrage and Calls for Justice

The attack has sparked international outrage, with journalists worldwide condemning the assault on reporters in Gaza. The United Nations has insisted that Israel must ensure its investigations into the hospital strike yield results, emphasizing the need for justice. The Canadian foreign ministry has also expressed its horror, terming such attacks as unacceptable.

Contrasting Narratives

The IDF has claimed that a Hamas camera was present in the hospital, used to observe troop activity and direct terrorist activities. However, Hamas has challenged this account, stating that none of the 21 killed in the strike were fighters. Experts also suggest that the hospital was deliberately targeted with a guided Spike missile, contradicting the IDF's claim that the strike was a mistake.

The incident has raised serious questions about potential violations of international law. With evidence to suggest a deliberate attack on a civilian building, specifically a hospital, and the killing of civilians, rescue workers, and journalists, the strike may constitute a war crime. The incident continues to be under investigation, and the world awaits answers.