According to a non-governmental organization (NGO), 31 journalists have been killed in the Gaza war so far. Among them are 26 Palestinians, four Israelis and one LebaneseThe US-based Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) said this on Tuesday.
The war is taking a heavy toll on journalists. In Gaza, journalists are exposed to particularly high risks “in view of a ground offensive (…), devastating air strikes by Israel, disrupted communications and widespread power outages”.
Journalists make “great sacrifices”
Until now, according to CPJ Eight journalists were injured, nine others are missing or arrested. There are also unconfirmed reports of further deaths, cases of disappearances and threats and damage to the offices of media companies and the homes of journalists. “Journalists in the region are making great sacrifices to cover this heartbreaking conflict,” the report said. Those in the Gaza Strip in particular are paying an “unprecedented price” and are exposed to “extraordinary threats.”
The organization published a list of confirmed deaths and injuries so far. This includes employees of news websites and agencies, radio and television stations.
The Israeli army had previously told news agencies Reuters and Agence France Press (AFP) that it could not guarantee the safety of its workers in the Gaza Strip. Both houses had previously asked for guarantees that their journalists would not be targeted by Israeli attacks. “We cannot guarantee the safety of your employees and advise you to take all necessary steps to ensure their safety,” the Reuters agency quoted a letter from the Israeli military as saying.
The organization Reporters Without Borders (RSF) describes the Gaza Strip as one particularly hostile territory when it comes to press freedom. The ruling Hamas and the militant Palestinian organization Islamic Jihad allegedly harass and obstruct journalists suspected of collaborating with Israel.
Israel, in turn, has “steadily suppressed” news coverage of the Gaza Strip since the start of the war, according to RSF. The Israeli army would do “everything possible to prevent the spread of images”said RSF Secretary General Christophe Deloire about two weeks after the start of the war. (sda/dpa)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
