Israel’s Attacks on Journalists Condemned as War Crimes by International Federation
Gaza Turns into a “Ghost City” as Israel Continuously Targets Civilians and Journalists
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) Deputy Secretary General, Tim Dawson, has condemned Israel’s targeting of civilians, including journalists, in Gaza since October 7. Dawson described Gaza as a “ghost city” due to Israel’s continuous attacks, leading to people trying to survive without basic human conditions. Media workers, who are targeted almost every day, are among the biggest victims of this tragedy.
The number of journalists killed in Gaza has reached a “terrible and heartbreaking” level, with local sources reporting 103 deaths, while IFJ’s calculation is 63 or possibly more. Dawson mentioned that 7-8 percent of journalists have lost their lives, with some journalists losing almost all their family members. According to him, the number of journalist deaths is almost unprecedented compared to the total number of journalists in the region.
Israel’s statements claiming they did not deliberately target journalists have been contradicted by journalists in the region. Dawson highlighted that Gazan journalists strongly believe they were targeted, considering the high rate of journalist deaths.
Dawson accused Israel of committing war crimes in Gaza and emphasized that journalists should be treated as civilians under international law.
He also criticized the energy and communication cuts in Gaza, stating that they were designed to prevent the flow of news from the region and restrict communication. Dawson argued that this targeting of journalists is a crime within the scope of preventing the public’s right to receive information.
IFJ has applied to the International Criminal Court regarding the killing of Palestinian journalists. Dawson called on the ICC to speed up the investigation and address the killing of Palestinian colleagues. He stated that this investigation is critical in establishing trust in international law.
The government in the Gaza Strip announced that the number of journalists killed since October 7 has reached 103. Several media workers, including photojournalist Ali Cadallah and AA cameraman Muhammed al-Alul, have lost family members because of the Israeli attacks.
As the situation in Gaza continues to worsen, the international community is being urged to take action to protect the lives of journalists and ensure the flow of news from the region. The targeting of journalists is not only a violation of international law but also an attack on the fundamental right of the public to receive information. The voices of the oppressed and affected must be heard, and justice must be served.
