AT LEAST 20 people were reportedly killed yesterday in an Israeli air strike on a Gaza hospital.
Five of the dead were reportedly working as journalists for international news agencies.
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They included Mariam Dagga, 33, who was a freelancer working for Associated Press.
Reuters said cameraman Hussam al-Masri was also killed alongside Moaz Abu Taha, who had worked “occasionally” for the news agency.
Witnesses said they were killed in two separate strikes on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis.
IDF spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin said: “I would like to be clear from the start – the IDF does not intentionally target civilians.
“The Chief of the General Staff has instructed that an inquiry be conducted immediately to understand the circumstances of what happened and how it happened.
“We regret any harm to uninvolved individuals and are committed to continue fighting Hamas, while taking all the necessary precautions.”
Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: “Civilians, healthcare workers and journalists must be protected.
“We need an immediate ceasefire.”
Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel “deeply regrets” the “tragic mishap” that took place at Nasser hospital and that the military were conducting a thorough investigation into what happened.
The Israeli PM said: “Israel deeply regrets the tragic mishap that occurred today at the Nasser Hospital in Gaza.
“Israel values the work of journalists, medical staff, and all civilians. The military authorities are conducting a thorough investigation.
“Our war is with Hamas terrorists. Our just goals are defeating Hamas and bringing our hostages home.”
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