53 Journalists and Media Workers Killed in Latest Israel-Hamas Conflict: CPJ Reports Devastating Toll on Press Freedom
The latest conflict between Israel and Hamas has led to the deaths of 53 journalists and media workers, with 46 Palestinians, four Israelis, and three Lebanese individuals among the casualties. Journalists in Gaza face high risks as they cover the conflict, and the current Gaza war has resulted in the deadliest month for journalists since 1992. Additionally, the United Nations reports a devastating toll on civilians, with thousands killed and over 1.7 million people displaced in Gaza.
In the latest deadly conflict between Israel and Hamas, a total of 53 journalists and media workers have been killed, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). The toll includes 46 Palestinians, four Israelis, and three Lebanese individuals. The most recent casualties were two journalists from the pro-Iranian Lebanese channel Al Mayadeen, who were killed by Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon.
53 journalists killed since October 7, the majority in Gaza. If you’re a media worker this number should shake you to your core.
— Lama Al-Arian (@lalarian) November 21, 2023
The CPJ also reported that 11 journalists have been injured and three are missing since the start of the conflict, with 18 journalists being arrested. Journalists in Gaza face particularly high risks as they try to cover the conflict during the Israeli ground assault, including devastating airstrikes, disrupted communications, supply shortages, and extensive power outages. The conflict began after Hamas gunmen killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, during cross-border raids on October 7, which was the deadliest attack in Israel's history. In retaliation, Israel launched a relentless bombing campaign and ground offensive in Gaza, which is ruled by Hamas. According to Hamas, the Israeli offensive has killed more than 13,300 people, including thousands of children.
The current Gaza war has resulted in the deadliest month for journalists since the CPJ began gathering information in 1992. The United Nations has also reported a devastating toll on civilians, with at least 13,000 people, including 4,000 children, being killed in the Gaza strip since October 7. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the killing of civilians as unparalleled and unprecedented, stating that the conflict has witnessed a level of violence that is shocking.
The United Nations Relief and Work Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) has stated that more than 1.7 million people in Gaza have been displaced, with over 880,000 seeking refuge in UNRWA shelters. Tragically, more than 108 UNRWA staff members have been confirmed killed, and 67 UNRWA installations have been struck, with 17 of them being direct hits. The extent of the destruction and loss of life is truly devastating and highlights the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to this conflict.