NextFin news, The Associated Press on Friday questioned the Israeli military's account of its attack on Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, Gaza, on Monday, August 25, 2025, which resulted in the deaths of 22 people, including five journalists.
According to AP's detailed investigation, Israeli forces targeted a location on the hospital's rooftop known as a gathering point for journalists. The military claimed it struck the site because it believed a camera there was being used by Hamas to observe Israeli troops, citing "suspicious behavior" and intelligence that the camera operator had a towel draped over the equipment to avoid identification.
However, AP gathered evidence indicating the camera belonged to Hussam al-Masri, a Reuters video journalist who routinely covered his equipment with a white cloth to protect it from sun and dust. Al-Masri was killed in the initial strike. Witnesses said Israeli drones frequently surveilled the position, including about 40 minutes before the attack, raising questions about why the military proceeded without clearer identification.
AP's findings also highlight troubling aspects of the attack: Israeli forces struck the same position four times without warning, including a second strike shortly after the first when medical workers, emergency responders, and journalists had arrived to assist the wounded. This "double tap" strike, which killed additional journalists including AP contributor Mariam Dagga, is considered by international law experts as a possible war crime.
The Israeli military has not provided evidence supporting its claims and said it is investigating the incident. It acknowledged "gaps" in the attack's execution but denied that journalists were targeted or linked to Hamas.
The attack has drawn international condemnation amid Israel's ongoing offensive in Gaza City. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as a "tragic mishap" but did not issue an apology.
Nasser Hospital is one of the few functioning medical facilities in Gaza and a critical location for journalists reporting on the conflict. The hospital's rooftop and external stairwell have been used by journalists to capture live footage and report on casualties and conditions in Gaza.
AP's investigation is based on interviews with nearly 20 eyewitnesses present during the strikes, analysis of video footage, and information from current and former Israeli military officials and weapons analysts.
The attack killed 22 people, including five journalists, underscoring the dangers faced by media personnel covering the conflict in Gaza, where Israel has barred foreign journalists since October 2023.
Sources: Associated Press, RNZ, MSN, New Haven Register, The Catholic Observer
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