Palestinian Journalist Killed in Gaza Media Tent Strike as Toll on Press Mounts
April 7, 2025
Israeli Airstrike on Gaza Media Tent Sparks Outcry Over Journalist Deaths
April 7, 2025
March 07, 2025 – Palestine/Israel –
On April 7, 2025, an Israeli airstrike targeted a media tent situated within the Nasser Hospital complex in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least two individuals, including journalist Helmi al-Faqawi, and injuring several others.
The tent, utilized by journalists covering the ongoing conflict, was set ablaze during the early morning attack. Footage shared by Quds News Network depicted the tent engulfed in flames, with bystanders attempting to extinguish the fire.
Among the injured were journalists Hassan Eslaih and Ihab al-Bardini, with al-Bardini sustaining a shrapnel injury to the head. Journalist Ahmad Mansour reportedly suffered severe burns and was in critical condition following the strike.
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) condemned the attack, labeling it a targeted airstrike against media personnel. CPJ called on the international community to take action to prevent further killings of Palestinian journalists.
This incident adds to the growing toll on media workers in Gaza. According to the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate, over 210 journalists have been killed since the beginning of Israel’s offensive in Gaza in October 2023.
The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described al-Faqawi’s death as an “extrajudicial” act aimed at intimidating the press. The strike also claimed the life of Yousef al-Khazindar and injured nine others, six of whom were journalists.
The Israeli military stated that the airstrike targeted Hamas operatives using the hospital as a command center. However, Gaza health officials reported that the strike resulted in the deaths of al-Faqawi and another patient, as well as injuries to several others.
The incident has sparked debates over press freedom, the targeting of journalists, and the ethical responsibilities of media organizations in conflict reporting. Advocacy groups continue to call for investigations into attacks on journalists and for measures to ensure their protection by international law.
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