Tragedy Strikes in Gaza: Hospital Attack Claims Lives of Journalists and Civilians
In a devastating incident reported in October 2025, at least 15 individuals, including four international journalists, lost their lives due to an Israeli airstrike targeting Nasser Hospital in the southern Gaza Strip. Among the fatalities were a cameraman from Reuters and a journalist for the Associated Press, alongside another reporter affiliated with Al Jazeera.
The lethal strikes occurred in quick succession, with an initial explosion causing casualties and a follow-up blast hitting as rescuers rushed to assist the victims, according to the Hamas-operated Civil Defence. Responses from the Israeli military and the Prime Minister’s office are yet to follow.
Eyewitness footage captured the chaos at the hospital. One doctor, visibly shaken, showed bloodied garments to reporters before a sudden explosion sent people into a panic, with glass shattering all around. Distressing scenes unfolded as an injured man could be seen trying to crawl to safety amidst the turmoil. Additional clips revealed thick clouds of smoke billowing from the hospital’s upper floors, while chaos reigned outside with screams and ambulance sirens piercing the air.
The Reuters news agency confirmed that cameraman Husam al-Masri was among those killed, while the Associated Press expressed its deep sorrow over the death of freelance journalist Mariam Dagga, aged 33. Other reported victims included Mohammed Salameh from Al Jazeera and photographer Muath Abu Taha; however, NBC clarified that Taha was not one of its employees as previously reported.
The Civil Defence reported that the total number of fatalities reached 15, including a member of its team. This tragic attack follows a recent incident in which six journalists were killed near al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City during an Israeli strike.
The UN’s human rights office condemned this incident, deeming it a severe violation of international law. Meanwhile, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed the targeting of Anas al-Sharif, an Al Jazeera journalist, was justified, alleging his connection to a Hamas terrorist cell. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called for evidence to substantiate these claims, asserting that Israel has yet to provide any substantiation.
As the situation continues to develop, the international community watches closely, advocating for the protection of both journalists and civilians in conflict zones.