Turkish-American Journalists Recognised at New York “Media Friendship Awards”
September 14, 2025
IFJ Calls Out Israel After Airstrike Kills Yemeni Journalists
September 14, 2025
September 14, 2025 – Palestine –
Veteran photojournalist Reuven Castro, working with the Walla news site, was shoved to the ground by a police officer while covering a protest outside a Likud Party event on the evening of September 13. Protesters had gathered in Petah Tikvah ahead of the Jewish New Year, demanding a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of 48 hostages held by Hamas.
Hundreds of demonstrators stationed themselves at the entrance of the venue where Likud ministers were entering, carrying signs, chanting, and using drums and horns. While many were held behind barricades by police, Castro walked near the entrance, taking photographs when a police officer pushed him, causing him to fall to the ground. He was treated at the scene for injuries.
The protest coincided with multiple similar rallies across the country, all calling attention to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the urgent need for a resolution for hostages. Some protesters expressed anger that government officials appeared in celebratory gatherings while long-standing grievances remained unresolved.
In response, the Israeli Police announced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Castro’s fall, including which officer was involved and whether excessive force was used. The incident has drawn criticism from press freedom groups and media advocates who argue that journalists should be able to work at protests without fear of being harmed.
The event is the latest in a series of confrontations between security forces and journalists or protesters, raising concerns about press safety and state accountability, especially in politically charged settings. Castro, a seasoned photographer, was visibly shaken but continued his work, underscoring the risks faced by media workers covering contentious political events.
References –
