Lebanese Journalists Honored for War Reporting Amid Renewed Call for Press Protections

March 04, 2025 – Lebanon – 

In a moving ceremony held at Olive Beirut in Sin El Fil on March 3, 2025, Lebanese journalists who bravely covered the recent war on Lebanon were honored during a Ramadan iftar. Organized by the Ministry of Information, the event brought together government officials, media professionals, and civil society members to recognize the sacrifices and courage of the country’s press during one of its most challenging periods.

Information Minister Paul Morcos led the tribute, emphasizing the critical role journalists played in defending truth and documenting the devastation of war. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring press freedom and called for stronger institutional and legal frameworks to protect media professionals. He also stressed the importance of revitalizing state-run media outlets like Télé Liban to serve as a platform for reliable public information.

Former Minister Ziad Makary echoed these sentiments, highlighting that while political factions remained fragmented during the war, journalists from diverse backgrounds stood united on the front lines. He commended them for risking their lives to deliver accurate reporting under dangerous conditions and urged the government to institutionalize support for the media sector.

Several prominent journalists took the stage to speak about the profession’s perils and the personal toll of war reporting. Journalist Rana Astih paid tribute to colleagues who lost their lives in the conflict, including Issam Abdullah, Farah Omar, and Rabih Maamari, who were remembered as symbols of bravery and commitment. Mohammad Al-Janoun reminded the audience that threats and violence would not silence the media, while Rabia Al-Zayyat called for greater unity and acknowledgment of the sacrifices journalists make regardless of political affiliation.

The event served not just as a commemoration but also as a reminder of the urgent need to bolster protections for the press. As Lebanon grapples with ongoing political and economic instability, journalists continue to play a vital role in informing the public, often at great personal risk. The evening concluded with a shared commitment among attendees to safeguard press freedom as a cornerstone of democracy.

Reference – 

Morcos Honors Journalists Who Covered the War on Lebanon

https://www.mtv.com.lb/news/local/1553587/morcos-honors-journalists-who-covered-the-war-on-lebanon

https://www.nna-leb.gov.lb/en/politics/763387/morcos-honors-journalists-who-covered-the-war-on-l