Israeli strike near Al-Shifa hospital kills Al Jazeera journalists

Four Al Jazeera journalists were killed in an Israeli strike near Gaza City's Al-Shifa Hospital, the broadcaster confirmed. The journalists were Correspondents Anas al-Sharif and Mohammed Qreiqeh, and cameramen Ibrahim Zaher and Mohammed Noufal. They were in a tent for journalists at the hospital's main gate when it was targeted.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed striking Anas al-Sharif, stating he had "served as the head of a terrorist cell in Hamas." Al-Sharif, 28, had posted warnings of intense Israeli bombardment in Gaza City moments before his death. Videos of the aftermath showed men carrying the bodies of those killed, with some identifying Mohammed Qreiqeh and Anas Al-Sharif.

Al Jazeera had previously condemned IDF for incitement against its reporters in Gaza. The network accused IDF of targeting its correspondents and journalists in Gaza. The IDF statement accused al-Sharif of posing as a journalist and being involved in rocket attacks against Israeli civilians and troops.

The IDF stated that steps were taken to minimize harm to civilians during the strike. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, 186 journalists have been killed since Israel's military offensive in Gaza began in October 2023.