An attack on Nasser Hospital in the Gaza Strip has caused worldwide horror. Nineteen people, including five journalists, lost their lives. The international community has responded with sharp criticism.

An attack that shook the world

It was an attack that has the world holding its breath: Israeli missiles struck the fourth floor of the Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis. According to the Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health, 20 people died, including journalists from the renowned agencies AP, Reuters, and the news channel al-Jazeera. Eyewitnesses report a double attack—first on the building, then on the rescue workers.

International outrage: “Unacceptable!”

The reactions were not long in coming. US President Donald Trump spoke of a “nightmare” that must be ended. French President Emmanuel Macron called the attack “unbearable.” The Austrian Foreign Ministry also expressed its horror and called for an immediate ceasefire. “Attacks on hospitals are a flagrant violation of international law,” it said in a statement.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for an “immediate, impartial investigation” and stressed that medical personnel and journalists must be protected. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus echoed this sentiment: “Stop the attacks on healthcare. Ceasefire now!”

Netanyahu: “Tragic accident”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his regret and spoke of a “tragic accident.” At the same time, he emphasized that the war against Hamas was justified. “Our goals are to defeat Hamas and bring back our hostages,” Netanyahu said. The Israeli military promised a transparent investigation into the incident.

Journalists under fire

Particularly tragic: five journalists were among the victims. The AP news agency confirmed the death of its freelance reporter Mariam Dagga, who leaves behind a 12-year-old son. Reuters and al-Jazeera are also mourning their colleagues. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), nearly 200 journalists have been killed since the start of the Gaza war – most of them Palestinians.

A turning point?

The Foreign Press Association in Israel (FPA) expressed its “outrage and shock.” “This must be a turning point,” the association demanded, appealing to international leaders to do more to protect journalists.

Credits: APA