The Israeli occupation army announced an internal investigation into the shelling that targeted the vicinity of Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis on Monday, resulting in the martyrdom of several Palestinian citizens including journalists. The army described the incident as an ‘operational error,’ though it remains unclear whether it was an actual field mistake or a deliberate decision to escalate near a medical facility protected under international law, according to the Palestinian Ma’an agency. The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed regret over the incident, claiming their battle is directed solely against Hamas. However, repeated shelling of hospitals and medical centers raises serious doubts about the true objectives.

Human rights and international organizations have called for an independent investigation to uncover the circumstances of the shelling and hold those responsible accountable, amid increasing accusations that Israeli internal investigations primarily aim to ease international pressure rather than uncover the truth. Netanyahu described the attack on the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis, which resulted in the death of 20 people including 5 journalists, as a ‘tragic incident.’ He asserted on Monday that Israel ‘appreciates the work of journalists, medical staff, and all civilians,’ noting that the Israeli army is conducting an investigation into the matter.