Merz Israel’s Gaza Hospital Strike Was Not Aimed at Journalists

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz addressed the recent Israeli airstrike on Gaza’s Nasser Hospital, which resulted in at least 20 fatalities including five journalists stating that there is no current indication the strike deliberately targeted media personnel.

“But the Israeli army and the Israeli government have both promised to launch a comprehensive investigation into this incident,” Merz said at a press conference in Berlin on Tuesday. “I would like to wait for the results of this investigation before making a final judgment.”

The IDF strike on the hospital in southern Gaza came Monday, killing civilians and members of the press including cameraman Hussam al-Masri and photographer Hatem Khaled, both working for Reuters. Khaled survived with injuries. Other journalists killed were identified as Mariam Abu Dagga, who had worked with the Associated Press and other outlets; Mohammed Salama, affiliated with Al Jazeera; and Moaz Abu Taha. A rescue worker was also among the dead, according to local health officials.

While the circumstances remain under investigation, the Israeli government has reiterated its commitment to reviewing the incident thoroughly. IDF officials maintain that any military action in Gaza is conducted in accordance with international law and aimed solely at eliminating threats from Hamas and other terror groups.

The Gaza Strip remains a densely populated war zone where Hamas often embeds its operatives and infrastructure within civilian areas including hospitals and schools complicating Israeli operations. The IDF has previously documented instances of Hamas using medical facilities as shields, a claim corroborated by intelligence and battlefield reports.

Merz’s statement reflects Germany’s longstanding support for Israel’s right to defend itself, while acknowledging the need for transparency and accountability. His call for a measured response and full investigation underscores the high stakes of Israel’s military campaign and the scrutiny it faces on the world stage.

As Israel continues to wage war against a terrorist organization that initiated this conflict with the October 7 massacre, its commitment to investigating tragic incidents including those that result in journalist deaths remains a critical aspect of its ethical conduct in warfare.

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