UN Secretary-General António Guterres strongly condemned the killing of Palestinians in Israeli airstrikes that struck Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis on Monday, his spokesperson said.

“Those killed in addition to civilians, included medical personnel and journalists,” UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told reporters in New York on Monday.

He said the killings “highlight the extreme risks that medical personnel and journalists face as they carry out their vital work amid this brutal conflict.”

Guterres reiterated that “civilians, including medical personnel and journalists, must be respected and protected at all times” and called for a “prompt, and impartial investigation into these killings.”

The Secretary-General also stressed that medical personnel and journalists must be able to perform their duties “without interference, without intimidation, and without harm, and in full accordance with international humanitarian law.”

He again urged “an immediate and permanent ceasefire, unfettered humanitarian access across Gaza and for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages being held in Gaza.”

At least 22 Palestinians, including medical staff, civil defense members, and journalists, were killed when Israeli airstrikes struck the Nasser Hospital. Dozens more were reported injured.

According to the Health Ministry, Israeli forces targeted the fourth floor of one of the buildings with two consecutive strikes. The second missile hit as emergency teams rushed in to evacuate the wounded and retrieve bodies from the rubble.

Among those killed were several members of the press. Palestine TV confirmed the death of its cameraman, Hussam al-Masri, while Al Jazeera announced that its photographer, Mohammad Salama, was also killed. Local sources reported the deaths of photojournalists Mariam Abu Dagga and Moaz Abu Taha, as well as freelance reporter Ahmed Abu Aziz.

The latest casualties add to the staggering toll of Israel’s ongoing assault, which has claimed more than 62,700 lives in Gaza since October 2023. The relentless military campaign has left the besieged enclave on the brink of famine.