Israeli forces carried out a double tap airstrike on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis on Monday, killing at least 20 people and injuring dozens more. The strikes one hitting the hospital’s fourth floor, the second striking moments later during rescue efforts also claimed the lives of five journalists covering the aftermath.
Among those killed were reporters and photographers from prominent international outlets: AP’s Mariam Abu Dagga, Al Jazeera’s Mohammed Salama, Reuters cameraman Hussam al-Masri, photojournalist Moaz Abu Taha, and Ahmed Abu Aziz.
Israel described the incident as a “tragic mishap” and announced the launch of an internal investigation. However, the attack has ignited widespread international condemnation, with press freedom organizations and world leaders demanding accountability and stronger protections for journalists working in conflict zones.
Expanding Military Capabilities
Even as outrage mounted over the hospital strike, Israel announced a new defense deal with domestic drone manufacturer Xtend. The agreement will supply the Israeli Ground Forces with 5,000 first-person-view (FPV) attack drones, signaling a significant boost to Israel’s drone warfare capacity as the fighting continues.
Military analysts say the move underscores Israel’s strategy of incorporating unmanned systems more heavily into its ground operations, particularly in densely populated urban areas.
U.S. Urges De-escalation in Lebanon
Meanwhile, Washington is pressing Israel to scale back military activity in neighboring Lebanon, where tensions with Hezbollah have been steadily rising. The Biden administration has urged Israel to halt non essential strikes in Lebanese territory in a show of support for Beirut’s efforts to rein in armed non state groups.
The diplomatic push highlights growing international concern that the Gaza conflict could widen into a broader regional confrontation.
As the war grinds on, the airstrike on Nasser Hospital has once again brought the human cost of the conflict into sharp focus especially for journalists risking their lives to document it.