Al Jazeera reported that five of its staff died in an Israeli strike on Sunday. The victims included correspondent Anas al-Sharif. The attack hit a tent used by journalists in Gaza City.

Israel Accuses al-Sharif of Being a Hamas Operative

However, the Israeli military confirmed it deliberately targeted al-Sharif. It accused him of being a Hamas “terrorist” who posed as a journalist. In a Telegram post, the IDF claimed the 28-year-old led a Hamas cell that launched rocket attacks on Israeli civilians and troops.

Al Jazeera Rejects Israeli Claims

In response, Al Jazeera strongly denied the accusation. It said al-Sharif was reporting near al-Shifa Hospital when the strike hit the tent outside the main gate. Furthermore, the network identified the others killed as cameramen Ibrahim Zaher and Moamen Aliwa, driver Mohammed Noufal, and reporter Mohammed Qreiqeh.

Palestinian Journalists Condemn Attack

Meanwhile, the Palestinian Journalists’ Syndicate condemned the strike. It called the attack a “bloody crime” and an assassination. In addition, media watchdogs report that nearly 200 journalists have been killed during the 22-month war in Gaza.

Tense History Between Israel and Al Jazeera

For years, Israel has had a strained relationship with Al Jazeera. During the current conflict, it has banned the network’s operations and raided its offices. Moreover, Qatar, which funds the broadcaster, hosts Hamas’s political leadership and has mediated indirect talks between Hamas and Israel.