Reporters Without Borders lashes Israel for branding Gaza journalists as “terrorists”

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has strongly criticized Israel for labeling journalists in Gaza as “terrorists,” calling the move an alarming attempt to control the narrative of the ongoing conflict.

Speaking in Geneva, RSF Director General Thibaut Bruttin expressed concern over the Israeli Defense Forces’ portrayal of Palestinian journalists, describing it as a flagrant violation of press freedom.

“We’re seeing Israeli defense forces trying to portray Palestinian journalists as terrorists. So we’re very worried about that trend too,” said Bruttin.

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Since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, Israel has faced accusations of targeting media workers in what is described as a “retaliatory campaign.”

The Committee to Protect Journalists has reported at least 137 journalist deaths, primarily Palestinians, with the true toll likely higher.

Bruttin alleged that many journalists have been deliberately targeted, stating, “Not only have they not been able to protect them, but also we have good reasons to believe that a fair amount of the about 140 journalists that have been killed have been deliberately killed.”

He highlighted the dire conditions for Palestinian journalists, who face severe shortages of food, water, and electricity while continuing to report under immense danger. The lack of international press access to Gaza further compounds the reliance on local journalists, who face dual risks as civilians and as perceived targets.

Calling the situation “unprecedented,” Bruttin urged the international community to hold Israel accountable and apply meaningful pressure to change its policies toward media workers.

Despite the grave dangers, journalists remain committed to covering the conflict. Bruttin compared the situation to other violent conflicts like the Iraq War but emphasized the unique challenges faced in Gaza.