PARIS: The Israeli army was responsible for one-third of all unnatural journalist deaths worldwide in 2024, as detailed in a report released Thursday by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The report underscores the heightened risks journalists face globally, particularly in conflict zones.
According to Anadolu Agency, the RSF’s annual report on press freedom states that 550 journalists have been detained, 55 held hostage, and 95 reported missing this year. The report reveals that 54 journalists were killed in 2024, marking the highest death toll in the past five years. Among these deaths, a significant number occurred in active conflict areas, with Israeli military actions accounting for a substantial portion. Specifically, the report notes that 16 journalists were killed in Gaza and two in Lebanon during Israeli bombardments.
Since October 2023, more than 145 journalists have died in Gaza, with at least 35 reportedly targeted or killed by Israeli forces while on duty. RSF claims to possess compelling evidenc
e that dozens of journalists in Gaza and Lebanon were deliberately targeted because of their profession. In response, RSF has submitted four war crime complaints against the Israeli army to the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The report also highlights that Israel ranks as the third-largest jailer of journalists globally this year. Thibaut Bruttin, RSF’s Director-General, commented on the situation, emphasizing that most of the journalists killed had identities that were easily verifiable, and their professional status should have afforded them protection. Bruttin criticized the Israeli military for what he described as deliberate attacks that contravene international conventions.
Bruttin further condemned the restriction on foreign media access to Gaza, labeling it a severe setback for press freedom. He described Gaza in 2024 as the most perilous environment for journalists, where the very act of reporting is under existential threat.