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May 29, 2025 – Bulgaria –
Bulgarian journalists are encountering significant obstacles in reporting from Gaza amid the ongoing conflict, primarily due to stringent restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities. These limitations have raised concerns about press freedom and the ability to provide comprehensive coverage of the situation on the ground.
In recent weeks, major Bulgarian media outlets have published reports based on a journalistic trip to Israel, organized by the Israeli Foreign Ministry. While these reports offer insights into the Israeli perspective, the lack of access to Gaza has hindered balanced reporting. The Association of European Journalists (AEJ) has expressed support for Bulgarian journalists striving to report directly from conflict zones and emphasized the importance of access to all affected areas for accurate journalism.
Since the escalation of hostilities in October 2023, Israel has maintained a strict policy barring foreign journalists from independently entering Gaza. The Israeli Supreme Court upheld this ban, citing security concerns. As a result, only journalists already present in Gaza or those accompanying the Israeli military under controlled conditions have been able to report from the enclave.
This restriction has drawn criticism from international press organizations. The Foreign Press Association (FPA) has called on Israel to allow unrestricted media access to Gaza, arguing that the ban severely hinders independent reporting and places an undue burden on local journalists who risk their lives to provide coverage.
The lack of foreign media presence in Gaza has led to concerns about the transparency and completeness of information reaching the international community. Journalists and human rights organizations argue that independent reporting is crucial for accountability and for conveying the realities faced by civilians in conflict zones.
The situation underscores the challenges faced by journalists attempting to cover conflicts with restricted access and highlights the ongoing debate over press freedom and the public’s right to information during times of war.
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