Gaza City: At least 15 people, including three journalists, were killed after an Israeli strike on Nasser Hospital in Gaza on Monday, according to Palestinian health officials.
One of the journalists killed was Reuters contractor Hatem Khaled, a photographer, the news agency said, citing local officials.
Last week, Israel’s military has initiated steps for an operation in Gaza City, amidst ongoing conflict. Tens of thousands of reservists have been mobilised to seize control of the city. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expedited efforts to dismantle Hamas strongholds, following the group’s initial attack on Israel in October 2023.
The Israeli government is pushing forward with its military objectives despite international appeals to reconsider. The campaign in Gaza, criticised for its potential humanitarian impact, risks further displacing Palestinians. Netanyahu’s administration is under scrutiny from both allies and adversaries for its hardline approach.
Hamas has accused Netanyahu of obstructing ceasefire negotiations. A statement from the group on Telegram denounced the ongoing military actions as a “brutal war against innocent civilians in Gaza City.”
The Israeli security cabinet, led by Netanyahu, has approved an expansion of military operations in Gaza. The aim is to take full control of Gaza City, a significant battleground between Israeli forces and Hamas.
International entities have urged Israel to pause its military activities, arguing for a ceasefire to prevent further escalation. However, internal pressure from far-right coalition members has led Netanyahu to continue the campaign and consider territorial annexation.
One of the influential figures from this coalition, Bezalel Smotrich, reiterated the administration’s stance by finalising the West Bank settlement plan. This move has drawn condemnation from numerous international observers who view it as detrimental to peace prospects.
