AP horrified by Israeli attack, says no proof Hamas was at media building

 

The Associated Press (AP) has slammed the Israeli military for its destruction of a 12-storey tower block in Gaza housing its office and that of other news media on Saturday, under the pretext that the building was also used by the Islamist group Hamas.

“We are shocked and horrified that the Israeli military would target and destroy the building housing AP's bureau and other news organisations in Gaza.

“They have long known the location of our bureau and knew journalists were there. We received a warning that the building would be hit.

“The Israeli government says the building contained Hamas military intelligence assets. We have called on the Israeli government to put forward the evidence. AP’s bureau has been in this building for 15 years. We have had no indication Hamas was in the building or active in the building,” said AP in a statement today.

“This is something we actively check to the best of our ability. We would never knowingly put our journalists at risk.

“This strike is an incredibly disturbing development. We narrowly avoided a terrible loss of life. A dozen AP journalists and freelancers were inside the building and thankfully we were able to evacuate in time."

AP also said that following Israel’s destruction of al-Jalaa building in Gaza City, the world would have less knowledge about what is happening as the violence unfolds.

The building also houses the offices of Qatar-based broadcaster Al Jazeera as well as other offices and apartments, and was evacuated after the owner received advanced warning of the strike.

 A Palestinian journalist was wounded in the strike, Palestinian media reported, and debris and shrapnel flew dozens of yards away.

The Israeli military said its fighter jets struck a multi-storey building “which contained military assets belonging to the intelligence offices of the Hamas terror organisation”. It said it provided advance warning to civilians in the building, allowing them to get out.

The US government said it told Israel to ensure the safety of journalists.

“We have communicated directly to the Israelis that ensuring the safety and security of journalists and independent media is a paramount responsibility,” White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki tweeted.

The acting director-general of Al Jazeera Media Network, Dr Mostefa Souag, called the strike “barbaric” and said Israel should be held accountable.

“The aim of this heinous crime is to silence the media and to hide the untold carnage and suffering of the people of Gaza,” he said in a statement.

At least 148 have been killed in Gaza since the violence began on Monday, including 41 children, health officials said. Israel has reported 10 dead, including two children. - Mkini