The United States on Tuesday refrained from criticizing Israel following the killing of five Al Jazeera journalists in the Gaza Strip, instead referring questions to its ally.
The Israeli military alleged that Anas Al-Sharif, a prominent Al Jazeera correspondent, led a Hamas “terrorist cell” and was involved in advancing rocket attacks against Israel. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce said the US respected journalists covering conflict zones but noted that Hamas members have been “embedded in society, including posing as journalists.”
The strike, which hit a tent outside Al-Shifa Hospital, also killed correspondent Mohammed Qreiqeh and cameramen Ibrahim Zaher, Mohammed Noufal, and Moamen Aliwa. European and Arab governments, the UN, and media rights groups have condemned the killings, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas calling for “clear evidence” to support Israel’s claims and adherence to rules protecting journalists.
According to local journalists, Sharif began his career with a Hamas communications office, promoting events for the group.
The Israeli military alleged that Anas Al-Sharif, a prominent Al Jazeera correspondent, led a Hamas “terrorist cell” and was involved in advancing rocket attacks against Israel. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce said the US respected journalists covering conflict zones but noted that Hamas members have been “embedded in society, including posing as journalists.”
The strike, which hit a tent outside Al-Shifa Hospital, also killed correspondent Mohammed Qreiqeh and cameramen Ibrahim Zaher, Mohammed Noufal, and Moamen Aliwa. European and Arab governments, the UN, and media rights groups have condemned the killings, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas calling for “clear evidence” to support Israel’s claims and adherence to rules protecting journalists.
According to local journalists, Sharif began his career with a Hamas communications office, promoting events for the group.
