A deadly Israeli strike hit the Nasser Medical Complex in southern Gaza, killing 19 people on Monday. Among the victims were four journalists and several emergency workers.

According to Gaza’s health ministry, Israel carried out two strikes within minutes. The first blast struck the hospital’s fourth floor, while the second targeted ambulance crews and first responders. Officials said emergency workers and aid providers were among the dead.

Netanyahu Expresses Regret

Hours after the attack, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted a message on X. He called the hospital strike a “tragic mishap” and expressed “deep regret” over the deaths.

Netanyahu said Israel respects journalists, medical staff, and civilians. He confirmed that an investigation is underway. He stressed that Israel’s war is aimed at defeating Hamas and rescuing hostages.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also released a statement. It said the military does not “intentionally target civilians.” The statement added that Israel was forced to act because “Hamas began this war, and created impossible conditions.”

Previous Incidents Where Netanyahu Showed Regret

Church shelling in Gaza City

In July 2025, stray Israeli tank fire hit the Holy Family Catholic Church, Gaza’s only Catholic church, killing three civilians. Netanyahu’s office said the deaths were caused by stray ammunition.

Later, Netanyahu called Pope Leo XIV to express remorse. In a statement, he said:
“Israel deeply regrets that a stray ammunition hit Gaza's only Catholic Church, killing three people sheltering there. Every innocent life lost is a tragedy. We share the grief of the families and the faithful.”

Rafah strike

In another incident, an Israeli airstrike in Rafah killed around 45 displaced civilians sheltering in a tent camp. Netanyahu described it as a “tragic mistake” and said it did not reflect Israel’s intentions.

He addressed parliament, saying, “Despite our utmost efforts not to harm innocent civilians, last night, there was a tragic mistake. We are investigating the incident and will obtain a conclusion because this is our policy.”

Journalists Among the Dead

Gaza’s Government Media Office identified the four journalists killed in the hospital strike:

• Hossam al-Masri – photojournalist with Reuters

• Mohammed Salama – photojournalist with Al Jazeera

• Mariam Abu Daqa – journalist who worked with The Independent Arabic and Associated Press

• Moaz Abu Taha – freelance journalist