In a tragic episode underscoring the dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones, the UN's human rights department has condemned an Israeli airstrike that claimed the lives of six media professionals, five from Al Jazeera and another freelance journalist, highlighting the pressing need for protection of journalists amidst ongoing violence in Gaza.
UN Denounces Deadly Israeli Airstrike on Journalists in Gaza
UN Denounces Deadly Israeli Airstrike on Journalists in Gaza
The UN has called a recent Israeli airstrike that killed six journalists in Gaza a serious violation of humanitarian law.
The UN's human rights office has officially condemned the recent Israeli airstrike in Gaza that resulted in the deaths of six journalists, labeling it a severe transgression of international humanitarian law. The airstrike took place on Sunday night and claimed the lives of five Al Jazeera journalists, including well-known correspondent Anas al-Sharif. The Israeli military claimed it targeted Sharif, portraying him as the lead of a "terrorist cell" connected to Hamas. This assertion comes amidst widespread condemnation from media rights organizations and various governments, particularly Qatar.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed grave concern, emphasizing the need for independent investigations and the safety of reporters operating in conflict areas. Following the airstrike, the funerals for Sharif, fellow journalist Mohammed Qreiqeh, and three cameramen were held in Gaza City, shedding light on the human toll of the attack. Medical personnel at al-Shifa hospital identified Mohammad al-Khaldi as the sixth fatality from the incident.
Media freedom advocates, including Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), decried the killing of the journalists, with the CPJ highlighting a troubling pattern of accusations against journalists by Israel that lack substantiation. In response, the Israeli military has cited documents found in Gaza purportedly linking Sharif to Hamas, including personnel lists and other data. However, independent verification of these claims remains elusive.
The UN reiterated the crucial need to respect and protect the rights of all civilians, including journalists, calling for unhindered access to Gaza for media personnel. In another distressing development, the Hamas health ministry reported that recent malnutrition deaths, including children, highlight a growing humanitarian crisis, with 222 lives lost due to malnutrition amid the conflict.
Tensions escalated following Hamas's attack on southern Israel in early October 2023, prompting a significant military response that has resulted in a staggering number of casualties in Gaza. According to health ministry figures, 61,430 individuals have perished due to the Israeli military operation, marking one of the most deadly periods for journalists since data collection began in 1992.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed grave concern, emphasizing the need for independent investigations and the safety of reporters operating in conflict areas. Following the airstrike, the funerals for Sharif, fellow journalist Mohammed Qreiqeh, and three cameramen were held in Gaza City, shedding light on the human toll of the attack. Medical personnel at al-Shifa hospital identified Mohammad al-Khaldi as the sixth fatality from the incident.
Media freedom advocates, including Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), decried the killing of the journalists, with the CPJ highlighting a troubling pattern of accusations against journalists by Israel that lack substantiation. In response, the Israeli military has cited documents found in Gaza purportedly linking Sharif to Hamas, including personnel lists and other data. However, independent verification of these claims remains elusive.
The UN reiterated the crucial need to respect and protect the rights of all civilians, including journalists, calling for unhindered access to Gaza for media personnel. In another distressing development, the Hamas health ministry reported that recent malnutrition deaths, including children, highlight a growing humanitarian crisis, with 222 lives lost due to malnutrition amid the conflict.
Tensions escalated following Hamas's attack on southern Israel in early October 2023, prompting a significant military response that has resulted in a staggering number of casualties in Gaza. According to health ministry figures, 61,430 individuals have perished due to the Israeli military operation, marking one of the most deadly periods for journalists since data collection began in 1992.
