The EU condemns the murder of journalists in an Israeli strike in Gaza

“The EU condemns the murder of five Al Jazeera journalists in an airstrike (Israeli military) in front of the Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City, including Al Jazeera correspondent Anas al-Sharif,” it said after a video conference of EU foreign ministers.

The Israeli army accused Anas al-Sharif of leading a “terrorist cell” of Hamas and being “responsible for the continuation of rocket attacks” against Israelis.

The EU took note of Israel’s allegations, Mr. Kallas said. “But in such cases, it is necessary to provide clear evidence, in accordance with the rule of law, to prevent journalists from being targeted.”

At a time when Israel is determined to implement its new operational plan in the besieged Palestinian territory, six journalists, including five employees of the Qatari channel – among them Anas al-Sharif, one of its main correspondents on the ground – were killed overnight in an Israeli strike on a tent where they were set up in Gaza City, in front of the Al-Shifa hospital.

Foreign journalists have not been allowed to enter the Gaza Strip since the beginning of the war. International media rely on local journalists, who have paid a heavy price in the conflict.

Ms. Kallas also called on Israel to allow for greater aid delivery to Gaza.

“Even as aid flows in more, the needs remain much greater. We urge Israel to allow the entry of more trucks and to improve the distribution of aid,” she said.