IDF claims six terrorists among dead in ‘tragic mishap’ hospital strikes

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

"The military authorities are conducting a thorough investigation."

But the IDF has now released the initial findings of its inquiry, including the claim that six of the individuals killed were terrorists, one of whom took part in October 7 invasion.

A military spokesperson said: “From an initial inquiry, it appears that Golani Brigade troops, operating in the area of Khan Yunis to dismantle terrorist infrastructure, identified a camera that was positioned by Hamas in the area of the Nasser Hospital that was being used to observe the activity of IDF troops, in order to direct terrorist activities against them.

"This conclusion was further supported, among other reasons, by the documented military use of hospitals by the terrorist organizations throughout the war, and by intelligence confirming Hamas’ use of the Nasser Hospital to carry out terrorist activities since the start of the war.

“In light of this, the troops operated to remove the threat by striking and dismantling the camera and the inquiry showed that the troops operated to remove the threat.

“At the outset, the Chief of the General Staff emphasised that the enemy conducts extensive and covert visual-intelligence gathering while cynically exploiting sensitive sites and civilian infrastructure, such as the Nasser Hospital, from which it carries out terrorist activities against IDF troops.

“The Chief of the General Staff added that six of the individuals killed were terrorists, one of whom took part in the infiltration into Israeli territory on October 7th. At the same time, the Chief of the General Staff regrets any harm caused to civilians.”

The investigation has now been expanded to look into how the strike was authorised and to "examine the decision-making process in the field".