Israeli strikes on one of Gaza's main hospitals have killed at least 20 people, including five journalists. The attack on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis prompted international condemnation and calls for an immediate ceasefire.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy said he was "horrified" by the attack on the medical facility. He wrote on social media: "Civilians, healthcare workers and journalists must be protected. We need an immediate ceasefire."
Double-tap attack methodology
The strike followed a documented pattern known as a double-tap attack. The first missile hit a building at the hospital site, prompting journalists and rescue workers to rush to the scene.
A second missile then struck as emergency responders and media workers were present. The second strike was broadcast live on television as it happened, according to Metro.
The journalists killed included staff from major international news organisations. Among the victims were Hussam al-Masri from Reuters, Mohammed Salama from Al Jazeera, Mariam Abu Dagga from The Associated Press, Moaz Abu Taha, and a journalist from UK-based Middle East Eye.
International response and investigation
The Israeli military said it was investigating the strikes. It stated that it "regrets any harm to uninvolved individuals and does not target journalists as such".
US President Donald Trump said he was "not happy" about the hospital attack when questioned by reporters at the White House. The World Health Organisation Director reported 50 additional people were injured, including critically ill patients already under treatment.
Professor Nick Maynard, who previously worked at the hospital, called the attack "barbarism in the extreme". Two weeks ago, an Israeli strike on Gaza City killed six journalists, with the Israeli Defence Forces claiming they targeted an Al Jazeera reporter they alleged was a Hamas cell leader.
The Committee to Protect Journalists said Israel failed to provide evidence for its allegations. According to Metro, 270 journalists have been killed during the 22 months of conflict, representing approximately 13 deaths per month.
Sources used: "PA Media", "The Guardian", "Independent", "Metro", "Express", "Evening Standard" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
