Airstrike on Gaza’s Nasser Hospital Claims At Least 20 Lives, Including Five Journalists

Palestinians mourn the death of journalists who were killed in an Israeli strike on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis. Gaza's civil defense agency said five journalists among at least 20 other people killed in the strike. Abed Rahim Khatib/picture alliance via Getty Images

On August 25, 2025, an Israeli airstrike hit Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, killing at least 20 people, among them five journalists. The first missile struck the hospital compound in the afternoon while civilians and medical staff were inside. A second strike followed shortly after, hitting rescuers and media workers who had rushed to assist the wounded.

The journalists killed were identified as Hussam al-Masri, a Reuters contractor who was broadcasting live at the time; Mariam Abu Dagga, a young correspondent noted for her coverage of women’s issues; field photographer Mohammed Salama; radio reporter Moaz Abu Taha; and cameraman Ahmed Abu Aziz. Another Reuters photographer, Hatem Khaled, sustained injuries in the blast.

The Israeli military acknowledged responsibility for the strike, voiced regret over civilian deaths, and insisted it does not deliberately target journalists. Officials announced that the incident is under investigation.

The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate denounced the attack as an attempt to silence the press and called for international protection of media workers. Since the war began in October 2023, more than 240 journalists have been killed in Gaza, making it one of the most dangerous conflicts for reporters in recent decades.