**The attack near Al-Shifa Hospital serves to highlight the growing dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones, amid accusations of targeted violence against media workers.**
**Tragedy Strikes as Four Journalists Killed in Israeli Airstrike Near Gaza Hospital**
**Tragedy Strikes as Four Journalists Killed in Israeli Airstrike Near Gaza Hospital**
**Al Jazeera confirms the deaths of its reporters in latest violence amid ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.**
Four journalists from Al Jazeera lost their lives in an Israeli airstrike near the Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, the network reported. The victims, identified as correspondents Anas al-Sharif and Mohammed Qreiqeh, alongside cameramen Ibrahim Zaher and Mohammed Noufal, were inside a journalist tent situated at the hospital's entrance when the attack occurred.
This tragic incident follows a string of criticisms from Al Jazeera regarding the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), which the network accused of inciting violence against its reporters in Gaza, particularly emphasizing the threats against al-Sharif. Just hours before his death, al-Sharif shared warnings via social media about aggressive Israeli bombardments in Gaza City, only to fall victim to the strike shortly thereafter.
The IDF took to social media to label al-Sharif as the head of a Hamas cell, denying responsibility for the deaths of the other journalists. In a statement, the IDF claimed that al-Sharif was not solely a journalist but had been involved in military activities aimed at Israeli civilians. They asserted that prior measures were taken to reduce civilian casualties during the operation.
Reactions to the tragedy have been immediate, with graphic videos surfacing post-strike showing journalists carrying the bodies of their slain colleagues. The clips highlight the increasing perils that media professionals face in conflict zones, particularly in regions like Gaza where tensions run high.
The Committee to Protect Journalists has reported that since the escalation of conflict began in October 2023, 186 journalists have tragically lost their lives. Al Jazeera has called for an end to the violence against media workers and urged for accountability regarding the attacks on its correspondents.
