An Israeli airstrike in the Nuseirat area of Gaza early Thursday (26 December) struck a vehicle marked with the word “Press,” killing five journalists from the Palestinian channel Al Quds Today, according to local reports. The strike occurred near the gates of Al Awda Hospital, with images showing a charred white van. Palestinian news outlets have strongly condemned the attack, calling for accountability.
The Israeli military claimed the target was a “terrorist cell” from Palestinian Islamic Jihad inside the vehicle, asserting the use of precise munitions, aerial surveillance, and intelligence to minimize civilian risk. The military emphasized it does not deliberately target journalists but considers members of armed groups lawful targets under specific circumstances.
International press organizations have expressed concern over the safety of journalists amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, which began after the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7 last year. The Committee to Protect Journalists has called the toll on media workers “unprecedented,” as multiple journalists have been killed since the escalation.
Despite the Israeli military’s claims, the incident raises questions about the targeting of individuals in conflict zones and the safety of media professionals. Calls for independent investigations and protections for journalists have intensified as the conflict continues to endanger civilian and press lives.
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