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December 12, 2024 – Palestine/Israel-
A deadly Israeli airstrike struck a residential building in Gaza City on December 12, 2024, claiming the lives of Palestinian freelance journalist Iman al‑Shanti and her two children. Al‑Shanti, who contributed to regional outlets and international media, had recently returned to her home and was unarmed and identified as a civilian. Local emergency responders confirmed that her children, aged six and four, were killed alongside her, while her husband and other family members were also severely injured.
Rights groups and press freedom advocates have condemned the strike as a grave violation of international humanitarian law. The Committee to Protect Journalists highlighted her death among several journalists killed since the start of intensified hostilities in Gaza. CPJ noted that al‑Shanti’s case reflects a growing pattern of journalists being caught in military operations despite being non-combatants.
The Qatar Press Centre joined the chorus, calling the strike an “unacceptable war crime” and urging international bodies to demand an immediate and transparent investigation. Regional authorities emphasized that targeting civilians, and especially journalists’ families, further undermines principles of distinction and proportionality enshrined in the laws of armed conflict.
This incident comes amid alarming statistics: Gaza has witnessed a record surge in journalist fatalities since October 2023. Dozens of media workers—many identified and unarmed—have been killed or injured, with female journalists and freelancers disproportionately affected. The persistent targeting of the press and civilians has drawn comparisons to potential war crimes, prompting calls from international forums and UN officials for serious accountability.
The killing of al‑Shanti and her children underscores the immense dangers civilians face in the Gaza war and warns that even family homes once once considered sanctuaries, are now becoming lethal zones. Advocates warn that such incidents deepen psychological trauma for populations living under constant threat and may violate protections guaranteed under international law.
As international condemnation grows, human rights organizations and media associations are urging independent investigations into the incident. They argue accountability not only honors the memories of al‑Shanti and other victims but also serves as a vital deterrent against further civilian and media casualties.
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