The experts chosen by the Human Rights Council expressed significant worry over the distressing impact on journalists and media employees in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, specifically in Gaza.

The experts expressed concern over the alarming number of journalists and media personnel who have been killed, assaulted, harmed, and arrested in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, specifically in Gaza, in recent months, without regard for international laws.

The specialists observed concerning accounts of assaults on journalists, even though they were easily recognizable by their jackets, helmets, and vehicles labeled as “press”. This suggests a deliberate tactic by Israeli forces to impede and suppress critical journalism.

Dozens dead

From October 7th, a total of 122 journalists and media personnel have passed away in the Gaza Strip, and numerous others have been wounded.

On October 7, Hamas militants, along with other Palestinian fighters, attacked southern Israeli communities and killed four Israeli journalists. The extremist group, which holds control over Gaza, was responsible for the attack.

They expressed their disapproval of any violence, intimidation, or harm towards journalists and urged all involved in the conflict to safeguard their safety.

Israeli forces have detained many Palestinian journalists in Gaza and the West Bank, where there has been an increase in harassment, intimidation, and attacks on journalists since the Hamas terror attacks.

Courage and resilience

The experts praised the determination and bravery of media personnel in Gaza, acknowledging that few journalists have faced such extreme consequences for simply performing their duties as those in Gaza are currently facing.

“The individuals [they] refer to consistently risk their own well-being on a daily basis as part of their responsibilities, while also enduring immense challenges and devastating loss of coworkers, acquaintances, and loved ones in one of the most brutal and deadly conflicts of our era,” stated the experts.

The situation of Wael al-Dahdouh, an Al-Jazeera reporter, was brought to attention. He tragically lost his wife, two children, and a grandson in an Israeli bombing on October 25. In addition, he narrowly escaped a drone strike that claimed the life of his cameraman in late December.

On January 7, 2024, an Israeli drone strike aimed at a car resulted in the death of a journalist working for Al-Jazeera, along with his colleague and the journalist’s second son.

Possible war crimes

The specialists emphasized the utmost significance of the right to access information as a crucial aspect for survival during periods of conflict. They stated that the lives of civilians rely on this right, and that journalists are essential in providing valuable information as well as serving as advocates for human rights and witnesses to acts of violence.

The experts issued a warning stating that journalists are eligible for civilian protections according to international humanitarian law. They also stated that any deliberate attacks or murders of journalists are considered to be war crimes.

An independent expert has urged the ICJ and ICC to be vigilant about the alarming trend of attacks and lack of accountability for offenses against journalists.

Access to Gaza

The specialists also urged the Israeli government to allow reporters access to Gaza and ensure the protection of all journalists in the Palestinian Occupied Territory.

The combatants were urged to assist in conducting quick, unbiased, and fair investigations into the deaths of journalists, following global guidelines.

Mandate to investigate

The individuals expressing their opinions are known as Special Rapporteurs. They, along with other independent experts on human rights, have been given the responsibility to observe and provide updates on particular topics or situations in different countries.

These individuals volunteer their services and are not employed by the UN or receiving a salary.

Source: news.un.org