Netanyahu apologises for Gaza hospital strike ‘mishap’ that killed 20

"Israel values the work of journalists, medical staff, and all civilians.

"The military authorities are conducting a thorough investigation."

An IDF spokesperson said shortly after the strike: "We are aware of reports that harm was caused to civilians, including journalists.

"I would like to be clear from the start – the IDF does not intentionally target civilians.

"The IDF makes every effort to mitigate harm to civilians, while ensuring the safety of our troops.

"The Chief of the General Staff has instructed that an inquiry be conducted immediately – to understand the circumstances of what happened and how it happened.

"As always, we will present our findings as transparently as possible."

However, they added: "We are operating in an extremely complex reality.

"Hamas terrorists deliberately use civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, as shields. They have even operated from the Nasser hospital itself.

"Reporting from an active warzone carries immense risk, especially in a war with a terrorist organization such as Hamas, who cynically hides behind the civilian population.

"We regret any harm to uninvolved individuals and are committed to continue fighting Hamas, while taking all the necessary precautions."

The double strike has brought worldwide condemnation.

UN Secretary General António Guterres said it was "horrific" and highlighted "the extreme risks that medical personnel and journalists face as they carry out their vital work amid this brutal conflict".

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy said he was "horrified" while French President Emmanuel Macron called the strikes "intolerable" and the German foreign office said it was "shocked".

The Foreign Press Association said this was a "watershed moment" and called on Israel to "halt its abhorrent practice of targeting journalists".