Journalists Killed in Israeli Airstrike on Khan Younis Hospital; Pakistani Rights Commission Condemns Arrests of Imran Khan’s Nephews

August 25, 2025

GAZA STRIP - At least 20 people, including four journalists, were killed today when the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) struck the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis, the only functioning hospital in southern Gaza. According to the Gaza Government Media Office and Hamas-run Health Ministry, the compound was hit twice: the first strike targeted a hospital building’s fourth floor, and a second strike struck rescuers and reporters who responded to the initial blast. Among the dead were:

  • Hussam al-Masri, contractor cameraman for Reuters
  • Mariam Dagga, freelance visual journalist for the Associated Press
  • Mohammed Salama, photographer for Al Jazeera
  • Moaz Abu Taha, correspondent for NBC News

The IDF confirmed conducting a strike in the area and announced that Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir has ordered an inquiry. “The IDF regrets any harm to uninvolved individuals and does not target journalists as such,” stated Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, adding that measures are taken “to mitigate harm to uninvolved individuals as much as possible while maintaining the safety of IDF troops”.

Al Hamas-controlled health authorities reported that the death toll could rise, with footage showing rescue teams engulfed in smoke and debris during the second blow. The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate denounced the attack as “a horrific massacre” and held Israel fully responsible, urging international bodies to protect press freedoms.

  • ISLAMABAD - The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) voiced alarm today over the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan’s nephews, Shahrez and Shershah Khan, in connection with the May 9, 2023, protests. HRCP criticized the timing-27 months after the events-and questioned the transparency of proceedings. “The fact that the arrests were made long after the trials of other accused have concluded is difficult to understand for any independent observer,” the Commission said, calling for adherence to the rule of law and protection of citizens’ rights. Lahore police confirmed the detentions, which followed PTI allegations of “abduction” by plainclothes officers. The party condemned the arrests as politically motivated and urged judicial oversight.

Next Update: Further inquiries into the hospital strike and legal developments in Pakistan will be reported as information becomes available.