A deadly strike on the Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza killed 19 people, including four journalists and several medical staff. Hours later, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed regret, calling it a “tragic mishap.”
The Palestinian health ministry said that Israel carried out two strikes within minutes. The first hit the fourth floor of the hospital, while the second targeted ambulance crews and first responders.
“First responders and aid workers were killed while trying to help the injured,” the ministry said.
Netanyahu Expresses ‘Deep Regret’
In a post on X, Netanyahu said, “Israel expresses deep regret over the tragic incident at Nasser Hospital in Gaza.” He added that Israel respects journalists, medical staff, and civilians and promised an investigation.
Israel deeply regrets the tragic mishap that occurred today at the Nasser Hospital in Gaza.
Israel values the work of journalists, medical staff, and all civilians. The military authorities are conducting a thorough investigation.
Our war is with Hamas terrorists. Our just…
— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) August 25, 2025
He also said the war is against Hamas, not civilians. “We are fighting Hamas to defeat them and rescue our hostages,” Netanyahu stated.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) denied targeting civilians on purpose. They said Hamas started the war and created “impossible conditions.”
Journalists Among the Dead
Gaza’s Government Media Office released the names of the four journalists killed in the strike:
- Hossam al-Masri, photojournalist with Reuters
- Mohammed Salama, photojournalist with Al Jazeera
- Mariam Abu Daqa, journalist for outlets including The Independent Arabic and AP
- Moaz Abu Taha, freelance journalist
The deaths sparked international anger, with media groups demanding accountability.
Past Incidents Where Netanyahu Expressed Regret
This is not the first time Netanyahu has expressed regret over civilian deaths.
Church Shelling in Gaza (July 2025): Israeli tank fire hit the Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza City, killing three civilians. Netanyahu called Pope Leo XIV to apologise and said, “Every innocent life lost is a tragedy. We share the grief of the families and the faithful.”
ALSO READ: Israeli Airstrike on Gaza Hospital Kills 15, Including Journalists from Al Jazeera & Reuters
Rafah Tent Camp Strike: An airstrike killed 45 displaced civilians in Rafah. Netanyahu called it a “tragic mistake” and promised a full investigation. “Despite our utmost efforts not to harm innocent civilians, last night, there was a tragic mistake,” he said in Israel’s parliament.
Questions Over Israel’s Military Strategy
Despite repeated apologies, critics say such incidents raise questions about Israel’s military strategy in Gaza. Each time, Netanyahu has acknowledged mistakes and promised investigations, but the strikes continue to claim civilian lives.
With more journalists and aid workers among the victims, international pressure is growing on Israel to change its approach and ensure the safety of civilians.
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