AP and Reuters are pressing for clarity following a recent Israeli airstrike labeled a “tragic mishap” by authorities, which has now turned into a topic of international scrutiny.
On August 25, an Israeli airstrike targeted the Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, one of the largest medical facilities in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of multiple journalists, including Hussam al-Masri, a cameraman for Reuters, and Mariam Dagga, a visual journalist from the Associated Press (AP). The strike reportedly claimed at least 20 lives.
In a joint statement, the two organizations highlighted the loss of several journalists and the urgent need for accountability.
This incident coincides with Israel’s escalating military operations in the region, particularly its intent to gain control over Gaza City, which has faced significant backlash from various global entities.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as a “tragic mishap,” expressing profound regret while emphasizing Israel’s commitment to safeguard journalists and civilians. “Our conflict is with Hamas terrorists, and our goal is to ensure their defeat and the rescue of all hostages,” said Netanyahu in a Monday statement.
General Effie Defrin, spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), acknowledged awareness of civilian casualties, including journalists. “The IDF does not target civilians intentionally,” he reiterated, lamenting the challenging realities on the ground. He further accused Hamas of using civilian infrastructure, such as hospitals, to shield their operations.
In response, AP and Reuters have formally requested a comprehensive explanation regarding the Nasser Hospital strikes in a joint letter to Israeli authorities. The letter underscored the obligations under international law to protect journalists and called for urgent accountability regarding the incident.
“We anticipate a swift and thorough investigation that leads to clear answers. These fatalities necessitate immediate and transparent accountability,” stated AP and Reuters.
Additionally, President Donald Trump expressed his discontent regarding the hospital strike, adding, “I didn’t know that. Well, I’m not happy about it. I don’t want to see it,” while simultaneously conveying the necessity of addressing the wider conflict.
U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the airstrike and called for an investigation, highlighting the imperative that medical staff and journalists operate freely without fear of intimidation or harm. Guterres advocated for a ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian access in Gaza, and the unconditional release of all hostages.
The UK and France, both of whom are anticipated to recognize a Palestinian state soon, have echoed the demand for a ceasefire. “A permanent ceasefire, the release of hostages, substantial humanitarian aid, and an enduring political resolution, including the disarmament of Hamas, are essential,” stated French President Emmanuel Macron via social media.
A suggested ceasefire agreement by Arab mediators proposes a 60-day halt in hostilities and includes measures for prisoner exchanges, the repositioning of Israeli forces, and expanded humanitarian assistance.
While Netanyahu has indicated Israel’s willingness to negotiate over hostages, he has stressed that any discussions must align with national interests, specifically focusing on Hamas’s defeat.
The ongoing conflict, which reignited on October 7, 2023, after Hamas’s attack on Israel that resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities, primarily among civilians, has resulted in the capture of over 250 hostages. The Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry reports that civilian and combatant casualties have surpassed 62,000—a figure whose veracity remains unverified by independent sources.
Reuters contributed to this report.
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