Amid Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza, Palestine has emerged as the most perilous region for journalists globally, according to multiple media freedom and human rights watchdogs, reported the Al Jazeera.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) revealed that nearly 200 journalists have been killed by Israeli occupation forces in the first 18 months of the war, with at least 42 of them dying while reporting on the ground. The organization’s 2025 World Press Freedom Index, released on World Press Freedom Day, emphasized the grave risks faced by media workers in Gaza.
“Journalists in Gaza are trapped with no shelter, food, or water,” said RSF, highlighting the dire conditions for media personnel under constant threat.
In the West Bank, journalists face regular harassment and violence from both Israeli settlers and security forces. Since October 7, repression has intensified, marked by mass arrests and an environment of impunity for crimes against journalists.
Ajith Sunghay, representative of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, noted that the targeted killings of journalists in Gaza may constitute war crimes. Speaking to the media , Sunghay stated, “Over 210 Palestinian journalists have been killed since October 7, 2023,” as reported by the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate.
He stressed the need for thorough investigations into these killings, calling for justice and accountability. “Gaza has become one of the deadliest places on earth for journalists,” he added, noting that the full extent of injuries among journalists remains unknown.
Sunghay also reminded third-party countries of their obligations under the Geneva Convention to facilitate a ceasefire and protect civilians, including journalists, through diplomatic and humanitarian efforts.
