Israel’s military conducted a “double-tap” airstrike on al-Ahli hospital in Khan Younis29, Gaza on 25 August 2025. This horrific assault claimed the lives of at least 20 people, five of whom were journalists. The incident since has raised tensions even further across the region. It has provoked worldwide outrage, including an allegation by media groups that the attack was a “war crime.”
The airstrike directly hit Nasser Hospital, a facility that received many of these casualties and that was hosting temporary emergency crews. Among the fatalities were prominent journalists: Mohammad Salama, a cameraman for Al Jazeera; Mariam Abu Dagga, who worked with the Associated Press and other media outlets; Hussam Al-Masri, a contractor for Reuters; Moath Abu Taha, a freelance journalist; and Ahmed Abu Aziz, a freelance journalist.
Witnesses described that the initial strike caused emergency responders to rush in droves to the scene. Just a few minutes later, another strike hit, unbelievably killing the very first responders that had come to help. This tactic has drawn strong condemnation and outrage in the U.S. for Israel’s war tactics in the urban, residential areas.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the death as a “tragic miscalculation.” First, he understood the challenges of the never-ending war. Though this statement has temporarily assuaged fury among publishers and journalism advocacy groups,
In response, AP and Reuters executives sent a joint letter to top Israeli officials including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They called for an investigation and accountability for these airstrikes. They sought “a clear explanation for the airstrikes that hit Nasser Hospital,” emphasizing the need for “unimpeded access” for journalists covering the conflict in Gaza.
“We are writing to demand a clear explanation for the airstrikes that hit Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis on Aug. 25, 2025, killing several journalists, including those working for the Associated Press and Reuters,” – AP Executive Editor and Senior Vice President Julie Pace and Reuters Editor-in-Chief Alessandra Galloni.
The attack on Nasser Hospital has worsened what was already a catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza. According to reports, medical workers and civilians were among those killed. The hospital’s capacity to function safely and effectively has been drastically affected by the continued violence.
Israel’s security cabinet is preparing to convene. They’ll be pressed on their plan for the liberated capital of Gaza City amid carnage and growing global outrage. The meeting is expected to focus on plans for an impending attack on the city and discuss a potential ceasefire offer.
Despite this pleasant scenario, among the first to declare confidence that the conflict would be resolved in a few weeks was U.S. President Donald Trump himself.
“I think within the next two to three weeks, you’re going to have pretty good, conclusive — a conclusive ending,” – President Donald Trump.
The reality of this shocking violence has further illustrated the military’s broader pattern of disregard for the disastrous impact their actions in civilian areas can have. Many people don’t like the double-tap strike. Such double strikes, when a second attack rapidly follows the first, can wreak untold devastation on non-combatants.
International bodies and human rights organizations have called for impartial investigations into this incident and similarly egregious cases. At the same time, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens. Beyond the immediate loss of life among journalists, this tragedy underscores the extreme dangers that media professionals play in conflict zones. This tragic event makes clear how important press freedom – especially in wartime – is.
The effect is tragic loss of life from such an attack. Along with other humanitarian-focused laws, it raises important and needed questions about the ethics of military engagement in civilian-populated areas. Media organizations continue to advocate for better protection for journalists operating in conflict zones, underlining their role in providing critical information to the public.
While calls for accountability are increasing, Israel’s leadership still has not revealed what they plan to do in response as their military campaign continues. With more attacks expected, local civilians and international observers alike follow closely as these limited moments of justice await them in Gaza.
