Attack on Nasser Hospital
On Monday, Israeli forces conducted a devastating strike on the Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, resulting in a significant loss of life. Eyewitnesses reported that the attack was executed as a “double-tap” strike, where a second explosion occurred shortly after the first, targeting those who had rushed to the scene to assist the casualties and report on the event.
At least 20 individuals lost their lives in this incident, including five journalists. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu referred to the strike as a “tragic mishap.”
International Reactions
The attack prompted a strong global response, with numerous statements condemning the action and calling for accountability.
- United Nations: The UN human rights office called for “justice and accountability” following the strike. Spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan highlighted that at least 247 Palestinian journalists have been killed since October 7, 2023, a figure he asserted should “shock the world.”
- European Union: An EU spokesperson decried Israel’s strike as “completely unacceptable” and urged for a thorough investigation into the incident, noting the numerous fatalities that have resulted from the ongoing conflict.
- United Kingdom: Downing Street condemned the “indefensible strike” by Israel. On Monday, Foreign Minister David Lammy expressed his horror over the attack and called for an immediate ceasefire.
- United States: President Donald Trump, in response to inquiries about the strike, acknowledged he was unaware of it but indicated that he was “not happy about it,” emphasizing the need to “end that whole nightmare.”
- Germany: Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated he did not believe the Israeli attack intentionally targeted journalists, expressing the desire to await the findings of Israel’s investigation before forming a conclusion.
- Spain: The Spanish foreign ministry characterized the strike as a “flagrant and unacceptable violation of international humanitarian law” that must be investigated, reiterating the need for special protections for journalists.
- France: President Emmanuel Macron condemned the strike as “intolerable” and stressed that “civilians and journalists must be protected in all circumstances.”
- Canada: The Canadian foreign ministry condemned all violence directed at journalists and reiterated the call for “an immediate and permanent ceasefire.”
