Israel Launches Probe After Gaza Airstrikes Kill 20, Including Journalists

Israel has ordered an official investigation after airstrikes in Gaza killed at least 20 people, including several journalists, sparking international outrage and calls for accountability. The strikes, which occurred late Friday night, targeted what the Israeli military described as militant positions but also destroyed residential buildings and media offices in the area.

According to Palestinian health officials, the victims included women, children, and two journalists who were reporting in the vicinity of the strikes. The deaths of media professionals have raised serious concerns about press safety in conflict zones, with international organizations demanding greater protections for journalists.

Israel’s Defense Ministry announced that an internal probe would be conducted to assess whether military protocols were properly followed. “We take civilian casualties seriously and will thoroughly examine this incident,” an Israeli spokesperson said. However, officials maintained that the airstrikes were aimed at neutralizing threats from militant groups that had recently launched rocket attacks into Israeli territory.

The Gaza Health Ministry condemned the strikes as indiscriminate and accused Israel of violating international law. Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos as emergency responders struggled to pull survivors from the rubble. Local journalists described the incident as one of the deadliest strikes in recent months, further intensifying tensions in the region.

Global reactions were swift. The United Nations called for an independent investigation, emphasizing that targeting journalists and civilians could constitute a breach of international humanitarian law. Human rights organizations, including Reporters Without Borders, urged Israel to ensure accountability and prevent further harm to media workers covering the conflict.

In Washington, U.S. officials expressed deep concern and called on all parties to exercise restraint. “The protection of civilian lives, including journalists, must remain a top priority,” a State Department statement read. European leaders echoed similar sentiments, urging immediate steps to de-escalate violence and safeguard non-combatants.

The latest escalation underscores the fragile nature of the situation in Gaza, where cycles of violence frequently erupt into broader confrontations. Analysts warn that unless diplomatic efforts resume, both Israeli and Palestinian civilians will continue to bear the brunt of hostilities. The deaths of journalists in particular highlight the dangers faced by those documenting the conflict, raising alarms about transparency and the free flow of information.

As Israel’s probe moves forward, families of the victims demand justice and accountability. Vigils have been held in Gaza to honor those who lost their lives, with mourners calling on the international community to intervene and push for stronger protections.

The investigation’s outcome could have far-reaching consequences, influencing Israel’s global standing and shaping future conflict reporting in Gaza. For now, the region remains on edge, awaiting both the findings of the probe and the next steps in an already volatile conflict.