On August 25, 2025, Israeli airstrikes targeted Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, resulting in at least 20 deaths, including five journalists, medics, and rescue workers. The first strike hit the hospital’s fourth floor, followed immediately by a second attack as emergency responders and journalists arrived at the scene. Among the deceased journalists were Mariam Abu Daqqa (Associated Press), Mohammed Salama (Al Jazeera), Hussam al-Masri (Reuters), Moaz Abu Taha, and Ahmed Abu Aziz. Hatem Khaled, a Reuters photographer, sustained injuries during the assault.
The Foreign Press Association condemned the attack, marking it as one of the deadliest incidents for international journalists since the onset of the Gaza conflict nearly two years prior. International reactions included denunciations from Turkey and critical remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump. Israel expressed sorrow over the incident, referring to it as a “tragic mishap,” and pledged an inquiry into the events.
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) highlighted that at least 184 Palestinian journalists have died during the ongoing war, a significantly higher number than in other recent conflicts. The CPJ accused Israel of targeting journalists and noted restrictions on foreign media access, exacerbating reliance on local reporters operating under challenging conditions near hospitals.
This incident at Nasser Hospital exemplifies a troubling pattern of violence against journalists and medical facilities in Gaza. A prior airstrike in April 2025 on a camp adjacent to a hospital also resulted in multiple fatalities, raising urgent concerns about the safety of journalists and medical personnel and the protection of civilian infrastructure under international law. The global community continues to demand accountability and adherence to humanitarian guidelines to safeguard civilians, journalists, and medical workers in conflict zones.
Leave a comment