Israeli air strike near Gaza hospital kills five journalists, say Palestinian authorities

Five journalists were killed in an Israeli air strike near al-Awda Hospital in central Gaza, according to Palestinian authorities and media reports. The victims, who were covering events in the Nuseirat refugee camp for Al-Quds Today channel, died when their broadcasting van was struck during the attack, Al Jazeera reported.

Footage shared on social media depicted the aftermath of the incident, with the van engulfed in flames. A screenshot from the footage showed the word "press" prominently displayed in red lettering on the back of the white-coloured vehicle. Civil defence teams later retrieved the bodies of the journalists and extinguished the fire at the scene.

The deceased have been identified as Fadi Hassouna, Ibrahim al-Sheikh Ali, Mohammed al-Ladah, Faisal Abu al-Qumsan, and Ayman al-Jadi. Reports indicate that al-Jadi had been at the hospital awaiting the birth of his first child while his wife was in labour when the attack occurred.

The Israeli military stated that the air strike targeted a vehicle transporting members of the Islamic Jihad group, asserting that measures were taken to minimise civilian casualties, including the use of precision weaponry and aerial intelligence.

This incident comes amid growing concerns over the safety of journalists in Gaza. Media watchdogs have reported a sharp rise in attacks on press personnel since the escalation of the conflict on October 7, 2023. At least 141 journalists have been killed in the ongoing conflict, with calls for accountability mounting from organisations advocating for press freedom.

The deaths have intensified scrutiny of Israel's military actions in Gaza, particularly regarding the targeting of journalists and media outlets. Human rights groups and press organisations continue to demand investigations and stronger protections for journalists operating in conflict zones.