Israel struck Nasser Hospital at least four times during its attack in southern Gaza on Monday, according to new video analysis from BBC Verify. The incidents, which occurred amid international condemnation, reportedly resulted in at least 20 deaths, including five journalists.
Initial reports indicated two strikes, but further examination suggests the facility was targeted four times. The first two strikes hit nearly simultaneously, while another pair of strikes occurred moments apart, critically injuring first responders and journalists gathered at the scene.
Reports from Gaza and video evidence indicate that the strikes specifically targeted staircases of the hospital, critical for accessing medical services. BBC Verify utilized footage from local freelancers and eyewitnesses to corroborate their findings, including confirming injuries among hospital staff and volunteers.
The first strike targeted the eastern staircase at 10:08 local time, resulting in casualties including journalist Hussam Al-Masri. A later analysis uncovered strikes that had been misreported, with two blasts identified occurring almost simultaneously on the same side of the building.
During the second wave of attacks, a significant number of first responders and journalists were present, leading to further casualties. Experts disagree on the specific type of munitions used, but suggestions include Lahat missiles fired from tanks or drones nearby. They assert that at least two tanks must have been involved, given the rapid succession of the strikes.
Israel's military has since evolved its narrative regarding the attacks, acknowledging responsibility while claiming the attacks were prompted by perceived threats originating from Hamas activities in the area. The strikes have faced scrutiny regarding their legality and classification under international law, particularly with regard to civilian protection during warfare.
Human rights experts emphasize that targeting medical facilities unnecessarily compromises the protection such locations hold under the Fourth Geneva Convention, asserting that the presence of adversarial equipment does not relinquish a hospital's safeguarded status.
Since the onset of the conflict on October 7, 2023, the death toll in Gaza has escalated, with significant casualties among journalists, challenging the safety of reporting in conflict zones. The ongoing situation highlights the struggles faced by both the local population and those aiming to provide coverage amidst violence.
Initial reports indicated two strikes, but further examination suggests the facility was targeted four times. The first two strikes hit nearly simultaneously, while another pair of strikes occurred moments apart, critically injuring first responders and journalists gathered at the scene.
Reports from Gaza and video evidence indicate that the strikes specifically targeted staircases of the hospital, critical for accessing medical services. BBC Verify utilized footage from local freelancers and eyewitnesses to corroborate their findings, including confirming injuries among hospital staff and volunteers.
The first strike targeted the eastern staircase at 10:08 local time, resulting in casualties including journalist Hussam Al-Masri. A later analysis uncovered strikes that had been misreported, with two blasts identified occurring almost simultaneously on the same side of the building.
During the second wave of attacks, a significant number of first responders and journalists were present, leading to further casualties. Experts disagree on the specific type of munitions used, but suggestions include Lahat missiles fired from tanks or drones nearby. They assert that at least two tanks must have been involved, given the rapid succession of the strikes.
Israel's military has since evolved its narrative regarding the attacks, acknowledging responsibility while claiming the attacks were prompted by perceived threats originating from Hamas activities in the area. The strikes have faced scrutiny regarding their legality and classification under international law, particularly with regard to civilian protection during warfare.
Human rights experts emphasize that targeting medical facilities unnecessarily compromises the protection such locations hold under the Fourth Geneva Convention, asserting that the presence of adversarial equipment does not relinquish a hospital's safeguarded status.
Since the onset of the conflict on October 7, 2023, the death toll in Gaza has escalated, with significant casualties among journalists, challenging the safety of reporting in conflict zones. The ongoing situation highlights the struggles faced by both the local population and those aiming to provide coverage amidst violence.
