(BBC News) The UN’s human rights office has condemned a targeted Israeli attack that killed six journalists in Gaza, calling it a grave breach of international law.
Five Al Jazeera journalists, including correspondent Anas al-Sharif, were killed in an Israeli air strike on Sunday. Two others were killed, including a freelance journalist, the broadcaster said.
Israel’s military said it targeted Sharif, alleging he had “served as the head of a terrorist cell in Hamas” – something Sharif denied. Israel provided little evidence.
The BBC understands Sharif did some work with a Hamas media team in Gaza before the current conflict.
In social media posts before his death, the journalist is heard criticising Hamas.
Media rights groups and countries including Qatar condemned the attack.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s spokesman said the UK government was “gravely concerned” and called for an independent investigation.
Speaking to reporters, Starmer’s official spokesman said Israel should ensure journalists can work safely and report without fear.
The funerals of Sharif, fellow Al Jazeera correspondent Mohammed Qreiqeh, and cameramen Ibrahim Zaher, Mohammed Noufal and Moamen Aliwa took place on Monday following the targeted missile strike on their tent in Gaza City.
Mohammad al-Khaldi was named by medics at al-Shifa hospital as the sixth journalist who was killed during the strike, Reuters news agency reported. Another person was also killed in the attack, it said.