Israel struck Nasser Hospital at least four times during its deadly attack in southern Gaza on Monday, an analysis of new video footage by BBC Verify has found.
The attack, which has attracted international condemnation and widespread anger, reportedly killed at least 20 people, including five journalists.
Initial reports from Gaza had said that Israel struck the hospital twice, with the first blast followed nine minutes later by another blast that targeted first responders and journalists. However, new analysis indicates that the hospital endured four strikes in total, with synchronous blasts damaging two staircases during the initial wave, and a later set of blasts hitting the same area seconds apart.
Israel has not permitted international journalists to enter Gaza independently. BBC Verify identified the additional strikes by examining dozens of videos submitted by a freelancer on the ground and those circulated on social media by witnesses.
The first strike hit the exterior staircase on the hospital's eastern side around 10:08 local time, killing journalist Hussam Al-Masri who was broadcasting for Reuters at that time.
Newly identified footage shows simultaneous explosions marking significant damage to both staircases, with emergency workers reporting that the hospital's operating area was also hit.
In the hours following the initial report, Israeli officials acknowledged the attack but have shifted their narrative. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Israel was responsible, although he expressed regret regarding the incident.
Experts have noted that attacking a marked civilian facility could violate international laws, as hospitals are protected entities under the Fourth Geneva Convention, making this incident particularly controversial and tragic amidst ongoing conflict in the region.
As the situation continues to develop, the implications of military actions on civilian infrastructure remain a key issue in the context of humanitarian laws.
