MPs are urging the UK government to take strong measures against Israel following an investigation by The Independent into the killing of journalists, first responders, and medics in a ‘double-tap’ attack on a hospital in Gaza.
The investigation, which included eyewitness accounts and testimony from Israeli whistleblowers, found evidence of war crimes and breaches of international humanitarian law. MPs are calling for increased sanctions and a cessation of trade with Israel, rather than accepting ‘weak justifications’ for the apparent war crimes.
The attack on Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis on August 25, 2025, killed Gaza correspondent Mariam Abu Dagga and at least 19 others. The investigation found that the Israeli military did not contact the hospital about the issue with a camera, despite having staff phone numbers, or warn them of impending strikes, which they are obliged to do under international law.
The Israeli military has denied committing war crimes in Gaza, but the investigation found that the camera in question was a Reuters live feed used by hundreds of journalists, including Mariam. The investigation also found that the military did not target ‘terrorists’ as claimed, but instead killed a hospital worker and a member of the civil defense assisting in the rescue operation.
International law experts have said that a prosecutor could reasonably conclude that the perpetrators committed the war crimes of intentionally attacking civilians and launching a disproportionate attack. The Israeli military declined to respond to the findings, saying the review is still ongoing.
MPs are calling for the UK government to ensure the Geneva Convention is upheld and to take action against Israel. Labour MP Sarah Champion said the British government should not accept weak justifications for war crimes and should uphold international humanitarian law. Liberal Democrat MP Layla Moran said the investigation marked yet another example of the reasons why a criminal case against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his ministers should go ahead at the International Criminal Court.
Baroness Helena Kennedy KC said there should be an international inquiry into the deaths of journalists in Gaza, Lebanon, and the West Bank. Labour MP Rachael Maskell said the IDF must be held accountable through the international courts, and the UK government must take the strongest measures against the Israeli government.
A government spokesperson said the attack on Nasser hospital was horrific and that civilians, journalists, and humanitarian workers must be protected. The spokesperson said the government of Israel must uphold its obligations under international law and ensure that those responsible are held to account.
