United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the Israeli strike on a hospital complex in Khan Younis in southern Gaza.

Twenty people, including five journalists, were killed in Monday’s attack.

The Palestinian journalists were attached to reputable international media houses including Reuters, the Associated Press (AP) and Al-Jazeera.

Guterres’ spokesperson Stephane Dujarric says, “The Secretary-General recalls that civilians, including medical personnel and journalists must be respected and protected at all times. He calls for a prompt and impartial investigation into these killings.”

Dujarric adds, “He reiterates that medical personnel and journalists must be able to perform their essential duties without interference, intimidation or harm in full accordance with international humanitarian law.  The Secretary-General reiterates his call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, unfettered humanitarian access across Gaza and for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.”

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