Israel struck Nasser Hospital at least four times during its recent military operations in southern Gaza, according to a detailed analysis of video footage conducted by BBC Verify. This incident has gained international condemnation following reports of civilian casualties, including the deaths of five journalists.
Initial reports indicated that the hospital was hit twice—first at 10:08 local time and again nine minutes later. However, further analysis reveals that two separate areas of the hospital were struck almost simultaneously during the first wave, and what was believed to be a later single attack actually consisted of two strikes occurring within milliseconds of each other.
Israel has faced criticism for limiting access to international journalists in Gaza, complicating verification efforts. The body of evidence compiled by BBC Verify, including footage captured by local freelancers highlights the extent of destruction and the number of casualties sustained during the attack.
Eyewitness accounts and video evidence suggest that during the initial strike, a stairway on the hospital's eastern side was impacted, resulting in at least one casualty—a journalist hosting a live TV feed. Newly surfaced footage indicates additional destruction in the northern wing of the facility that has not been previously reported.
The condition of the hospital worsened significantly following successive strikes that occurred as first responders and media personnel gathered on the scene. Experts analyzing the impact of the attacks suggest that the munitions utilized could be from Israeli tanks positioned nearby, but differing opinions exist regarding the specific types and number of munitions used.
As the conflict escalates, the Palestinian Ministry of Health reports critically high civilian casualties, with estimates exceeding 62,900 lives lost in the period since the conflict reignited earlier this month. Amid these escalating tensions, experts are raising serious legal concerns regarding the actions of the Israeli military, noting that targeted attacks on civilians are prohibited under international law.