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January 16, 2025 – Palestine/Israel –
Palestinian journalist Ahmed Al-Shayyah was killed in an Israeli airstrike while reporting near a food distribution point in Al-Mawasi, west of Khan Younis in southern Gaza. The strike hit a tent sheltering displaced civilians, volunteers, and journalists. Al-Shayyah was reportedly on assignment documenting the humanitarian situation when the attack occurred.
Al-Shayyah was a dedicated journalist working as an editor, producer, and correspondent for several Gaza-based media outlets, including ALEF Multimedia. Colleagues described him as deeply committed to telling the stories of civilians caught in the war. His death brings the total number of journalists killed in Gaza since October 7, 2023, to 205, according to the Palestine Media Forum.
This tragic milestone highlights the extreme danger journalists face while reporting in Gaza. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has verified at least 185 journalist deaths, but local media organizations and the Gaza government media office cite higher figures, now exceeding 205. Some estimates place the number of journalist fatalities at over 220 as the war continues.
Al-Shayyah’s killing is part of a broader pattern that press freedom organizations have labeled as the deadliest assault on journalists in recent history. Media watchdogs have documented multiple instances where reporters were marked as “PRESS” yet were killed or wounded in strikes. Human rights groups argue that these attacks could amount to war crimes, as international humanitarian law requires the protection of journalists in conflict zones.
International responses have been muted despite repeated calls for accountability. The International Federation of Journalists and Reporters Without Borders have urged independent investigations and protections for media workers. However, no formal international legal action has been taken to address the rising toll.
Reference –
Israel Kills Another Journalist in Gaza – Death Toll Rises to 205
