An Israeli strike in the Gaza Strip resulted in the tragic deaths of five Palestinian journalists outside a hospital in Deir al-Balah overnight, as reported by the Health Ministry. The strike targeted a group of militants, hitting a car outside the Al-Awda Hospital in the Nuseirat refugee camp. The journalists were affiliated with the local Quds News Network.
The Israeli military stated that the targeted group consisted of fighters from Islamic Jihad, an organization aligned with Hamas. The strike was in response to an attack by Islamic Jihad into southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which escalated tensions in the region.
Footage from the scene showed the aftermath of the strike, with the incinerated remains of a van bearing press markings. The journalists' bodies were wrapped in white shrouds, with their press vests placed over them during the funeral outside the hospital, where mourners, including young men, gathered to pay their respects.
Since the conflict began, the Committee to Protect Journalists has reported that over 130 Palestinian reporters have lost their lives. Israel's restrictions on foreign reporters entering Gaza have limited independent coverage of the situation on the ground.
Additionally, the military confirmed the death of a 35-year-old reserve soldier during fighting in central Gaza. The soldier's death brings the total number of Israeli military casualties in Gaza to 389 since the commencement of the ground operation over a year ago.
The ongoing war has resulted in significant civilian casualties, with the Health Ministry reporting over 45,000 Palestinian deaths. The toll includes a high number of women and children, although specific figures on combatant casualties have not been provided by Israeli authorities.
The conflict has led to widespread displacement, with approximately 90% of Gaza's 2.3 million population forced from their homes. Many now reside in overcrowded tent camps along the coast, facing harsh winter conditions without adequate shelter.
For the latest updates on the Israel-Hamas conflict, visit AP's war coverage.
