Gaza Airstrike Injures Photographer Who Breached Israel with Terrorists on October 7th

An airstrike in Gaza has injured Hassan Eslaiah, a photographer who entered Israel alongside Hamas-led terrorists during the October 7th attack. The IDF has identified Eslaiah as a Hamas operative who operated under the guise of journalism. The strike, which targeted a tent near Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, also reportedly killed another journalist, Helmy al-Faqawi, and injured at least five others.

Key Points:

• IDF Allegations: The IDF and Shin Bet claim Eslaiah is a member of Hamas's Khan Younis Brigade, using his press credentials as a cover.
• October 7th Involvement: Eslaiah documented the incursion into Israel, capturing images of armed Gazans and a burning tank.
• Media Ties Severed: Both the Associated Press (AP) and CNN cut ties with Eslaiah in November 2023 following scrutiny over his activities.
• Honest Reporting Report: A report highlighted a photo of Eslaiah with Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, raising further questions about his connections.
• Casualty Claims: Palestinian sources report that Helmy al-Faqawi was killed in the strike and the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate claims Faqawi is the 210th journalist killed by Israel since October 7.
• IDF Response: The IDF maintains that it takes measures to minimize civilian harm and that Hamas uses civilian infrastructure for terror activities.
• PA Condemnation: The Palestinian Authority condemned the death of Faqawi as an “extra-judicial killing” intended to silence reporters.

Controversy and Context:

The incident has sparked debate regarding the targeting of journalists in conflict zones and the blurred lines between media and militant activities. While Israel asserts that Eslaiah was a legitimate target due to his alleged Hamas affiliation, critics argue that the strike endangers press freedom and could deter reporting on the conflict.

Social Media Reaction:

HonestReporting, a pro-Israel media watchdog, shared the following via X:

In the hours following our expose, new material is still coming to light concerning Gazan freelance journalist Hassan Eslaiah whom both AP & CNN used on Oct. 7. Here he is pictured with Hamas leader and mastermind of the Oct. 7 massacre, Yahya Sinwar. — HonestReporting (@HonestReporting)

Ongoing Conflict:

The airstrike occurred amidst heightened tensions, with the IDF expanding its operations in Gaza following rocket attacks into southern Israel. The Hamas-run health ministry claims that over 1,000 Palestinians have been killed since renewed fighting began in March.

Disclaimer: Casualty figures from the Hamas-run health ministry are unverified and do not differentiate between civilians and combatants.