Gaza journalists protest for international protection, decry Israel's 'systematic targeting'

The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate in the Gaza Strip held a protest Sunday calling for international protection for reporters and an end to Israel's "genocide" against media workers amid the ongoing war since October 2023. Coinciding with World Press Freedom Day on May 3, the rally took place outside a solidarity tent run by the syndicate in the courtyard of the destroyed Rashad al-Shawa Cultural Center in western Gaza City.

Systematic targeting

Tahseen al-Astal, deputy head of the journalists syndicate in Gaza, said Palestinian journalists continue to carry out their work despite a "policy of systematic targeting" by Israel. "The Palestinian journalist will not abandon his identity, his narrative, or his mission and will remain committed to conveying the truth to the world," he told participants. Threats, killings, and attacks on journalists' families and workplaces constitute a "flagrant violation of international humanitarian law," Astal said.

Killings and injuries

Ahed Farawna, secretary of the syndicate, told Anadolu that targeting journalists in Gaza represents "one of the gravest crimes against journalism in modern history." He said more than 260 Palestinian journalists have been killed since the start of the war, alongside hundreds injured or detained and extensive destruction of media institutions. Mohammad Abu Nammous, a correspondent for Al-Ghad TV, said more than 262 journalists have been killed since October 2023, with more than 420 injured.

Call for accountability

Astal called on international institutions and the International Federation of Journalists to assume their legal and moral responsibilities to provide protection for reporters in Gaza. He urged an end to "the genocide on civilians and journalists and accountability for those responsible," warning that "impunity encourages further violations against media workers."

Gaza war context

Israel's war on Gaza has killed more than 72,000 Palestinians since October 2023. Despite a ceasefire since October 2025, Israel continues daily strikes and a blockade that has killed hundreds more. Israel also blocks entry of food, medicine, and shelter materials, where about 2.4 million Palestinians face dire conditions.