At least 19 people were killed Monday in an IDF airstrike near a hospital in Khan Younis, according to Arab media reports. Among the dead were several journalists, including photographers working for international news agencies.
A security source told Israel Hayom that the reason for the strike was the presence of a surveillance camera on the hospital roof that Hamas terrorists were using to track IDF troops. The IDF received authorization to disable the camera, but the incident escalated into a broader strike that caused significant casualties.
Video: Israeli strike on hospital in Khan Younis /// Arab media
IDF Spokesperson said that Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir had ordered a full investigation. In a statement, the IDFstressed that it regretted any harm to uninvolved civilians, does not deliberately target journalists, and takes steps to minimize casualties while ensuring the safety of its forces.
According to reports, the fatalities included AP freelance reporter Mariam Abu Daqa, Al Jazeera cameraman Mohammed Salama, journalist Ahmad Abu Aziz, who succumbed to his wounds after being critically injured, and Reuters photographer Hossam al-Masri.
