Gaza City, Palestine – The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has taken a heavy toll on journalists in Gaza, Israel, and Lebanon. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), at least 94 journalists have lost their lives since the conflict began on October 7. This tragic situation highlights the dangers faced by journalists working in war zones.
As of March 6, the CPJ’s preliminary investigations have revealed that among the 94 journalists killed, 89 were Palestinian, two were Israeli, and three were Lebanese. The recent loss of Mohammad Salama, a journalist for Al-Aqsa satellite channel, serves as a stark reminder of the risks journalists face while covering conflict zones. Salama, who was displaced from Gaza City, was killed in an airstrike in Deir Al-Balah, along with several family members.
Despite the gravity of the situation, the CPJ has noted that Salama’s name was not included in their list as of Wednesday. The organization is actively looking into reports of other journalists who have been killed, gone missing, detained, injured, or threatened during the conflict. Media offices and journalists’ homes have also been damaged in the crossfire, further endangering the lives of journalists in the region.
Sherif Mansour, CPJ’s Middle East and North Africa program coordinator, emphasized the importance of recognizing journalists as civilians doing crucial work, particularly during times of crisis. Mansour highlighted the sacrifices made by journalists in the region, especially those in Gaza who have faced unprecedented challenges and threats. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the loss of colleagues, families, and media facilities, forcing many journalists to flee in search of safety.
In light of these developments, it is crucial for warring parties to respect the status of journalists as civilians and ensure their protection. The relentless pursuit of truth and information by journalists in conflict zones is essential for shedding light on the realities faced by those affected by war. Despite the risks, journalists continue to uphold their duty to report on events unfolding in these tumultuous times, highlighting the importance of press freedom and the need for safeguarding journalists’ lives.