TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Gaza’s Nasser Hospital became a death trap for rescue workers, journalists and civilians last week when it was targeted by Israeli forces in a strike that has sparked global outrage. Recent Associated Press investigations raise serious questions about Israel’s rationale behind the attack and the operational methods employed during the assault.
The Israeli military announced an investigation into perceived 'gaps' in the information leading to the attack, which tragically claimed 22 lives, including five journalists. Among the deceased was Mariam Dagga, a contributor to AP, emphasizing the grave risks faced by journalists in conflict zones.
Eyewitness accounts and analysis by AP, drawing evidence from military officials and near-miss victims, reveal that the assault was based on a misinterpretation of surveillance footage featuring a camera covered with a towel, leading to misguided assumptions of militant activity. However, reports indicate that this camera belonged to a well-known videographer who employed a towel for protection against the elements.
Credible sources disclosed that initial drone reconnaissance of the area was conducted shortly before the strikes. Witnesses stated that a second round of missile strikes followed shortly after, a tactic commonly referred to as a 'double-tap' strike—an approach that specifically targets those responding to initial casualties. This method has raised international concerns and accusations of potential war crimes.
Besides the fatalities among journalists and medical personnel, a disturbing discrepancy emerged within the lists of those allegedly killed, where names cited by Israeli military claims could not be corroborated. For example, a health care worker reportedly identified as a militant was, in fact, providing essential services at the hospital.
AP footage shows the moment of the second strike, further compounding the tragedy as emergency responders rushed to assist the aftermath of the first attack. Calls for transparency from Israeli forces have echoed globally, as international relief organizations scrutinize military conduct in civilian-populated areas.
Reports continue to aggregate evidence as investigations unfold, shedding light on the precarious balance of military actions in urban warfare and the alarming vulnerability of media professionals serving on the frontlines.
