Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed sorrow on Monday regarding an airstrike on Nasser Hospital in Gaza, which resulted in the deaths of 20 individuals, including rescuers and several journalists.
Initial reports indicate that the hospital was struck twice, the second time occurring as rescue teams were responding. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged the event, conveyed their regrets, and stated that an investigation is underway.
In a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office, Netanyahu remarked:
Israel profoundly regrets the unfortunate incident that occurred today at Nasser Hospital in Gaza.
We hold in high regard the efforts of journalists, medical personnel, and all civilians. Military officials are conducting an extensive investigation.
Our conflict is with Hamas operatives. Our rightful aim is to defeat Hamas and secure the return of hostages.
The IDF followed with a detailed statement.
Today, IDF forces conducted a strike in the vicinity of Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis.
We acknowledge reports of civilian casualties, including among journalists.
I want to clarify that the IDF does not intentionally target civilians.
We strive to limit harm to civilians while ensuring our troops’ safety.
Any serious concerns in this context are reviewed by the appropriate IDF mechanisms.
We operate in a very complex environment.
Hamas militants deliberately use civilian infrastructures, like hospitals, as shields, and they even take refuge at Nasser Hospital itself.
This conflict was instigated by Hamas, creating untenable combat conditions, and they continue to hold 50 hostages, complicating the situation further.
As a responsible military, we are tasked with executing a comprehensive investigation to determine the facts.
The Chief of General Staff has directed that this investigation begin immediately to clarify what transpired and how.
Reports from active conflict zones present significant risks, particularly in conflicts involving terrorist groups like Hamas, who often operate behind civilian populations.
As always, we aim to be as transparent as possible with our findings.
We remain committed to combating Hamas, while regretting the impact on uninvolved individuals and taking all necessary precautions.
During a separate press conference at the Oval Office, President Donald Trump commented that he was “not happy” about the incident. Meanwhile, other nations have voiced much harsher criticisms and condemnations.
At the outset of the war, Hamas falsely accused Israel of bombarding hospitals and causing 500 deaths. These claims circulated until evidence showed that the attack was misattributed and actually hit a parking lot.
