The United Nations has demanded accountability and justice for an Israeli military strike on a Gaza hospital that killed numerous journalists and medical workers, coinciding with Israel’s release of initial inquiry findings that justify the attack as targeting a Hamas surveillance camera.
On August 25, 2025, Israeli forces launched a double-tap strike on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza. The first strike occurred at approximately 10:00 AM local time, hitting the exterior stairwell where journalist Hossam Al Masri was operating a Reuters live stream. The feed cut abruptly, and initial reports confirmed an explosion. Eight minutes later, a second strike targeted the same area as rescue workers and journalists gathered, resulting in the deaths of at least 22 people, including five journalists, medical staff, and rescuers.
Israel’s military released its initial inquiry findings on August 26, stating that troops had identified a camera allegedly used by Hamas to observe IDF movements and ordered a strike to dismantle it. The IDF claimed that six of those killed were terrorists, including one involved in the October 7 attacks, but expressed regret for any harm to civilians. However, the military did not provide an explanation for the second strike.
The United Nations Human Rights Office, through spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan, condemned the attack on August 26, calling it “unacceptable” and demanding an independent investigation. Al-Kheetan emphasized that the killing of journalists should shock the world into action, noting that at least 247 Palestinian journalists have been killed since the war began in October 2023.
A Sky News investigation published on August 27 challenged Israel’s claims. The report confirmed that the camera struck was used by Reuters for broadcasting purposes, not by Hamas, and that only the journalist was present on the balcony at the time. Satellite imagery and social media analysis suggested that the second strike involved precision-guided munitions, likely fired from tanks stationed northeast of the hospital.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from global leaders and organizations. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described it as “completely unacceptable,” while press freedom groups highlighted the extreme risks faced by journalists in Gaza. The Foreign Press Association noted that this was among the deadliest attacks on international media workers in the conflict.
This incident underscores the severe humanitarian and legal challenges in Gaza, where hospitals are supposed to be protected under international law. Experts like Brian Finucane, a former US State Department advisor, pointed out that hospitals lose protection only if used for harmful acts and with prior warning, which was not indicated here.
The ongoing conflict continues to devastate Gaza, with famine confirmed in some areas and thousands displaced. The international community, including the UN, is urging for an immediate ceasefire, full humanitarian access, and thorough investigations to ensure accountability and prevent further loss of life.
