5 journalists killed in Israeli Gaza strike, Al Jazeera reports
Journalists Killed Amid Gaza Conflict
On Sunday, a targeted Israeli strike on a tent in Gaza City claimed the lives of five Al Jazeera staff members, including the prominent reporter Anas Al‑Sharif, 28. The attack marks another in a series of fatal incidents targeting journalists over the 22‑month war, with media watchdogs reporting more than 200 media workers killed.
Israeli Military Remarks
The Israeli military confirmed that it had struck Al Sharif, labeling him a “terrorist” who “posed as a journalist.” The statement also claimed that he headed a terrorist cell in Hamas, responsible for rocket attacks against Israeli civilians and IDF troops.
Al Sharif’s Final Messages
Before the strike, Al Sharif posted on X describing intense, concentrated Israeli bombardment in Gaza City, sharing a short video of nearby strikes.
Other Victims
- Mohammed Qreiqeh
- Ibrahim Zaher
- Mohammed Noufal
- Moamen Aliwa
International Reaction
Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ)
CPJ’s regional director, Sara Qudah, condemned the labeling of journalists as militants without credible evidence and called for accountability. The organization’s statement highlighted that journalists are civilians who must never be targeted.
Palestinian Journalists’ Syndicate
The Syndicate denounced the killing as a “bloody crime” and urged further protection for media workers in conflict zones.
Al Jazeera’s Context in Gaza
Israel and Al Jazeera have had a contentious relationship for years, with Israeli authorities banning the channel and conducting office raids during the latest war. Qatar, which partly funds the network, also hosts an office for the Hamas political leadership and has facilitated indirect talks between Israel and Hamas.
Broader Implications
Media Coverage Challenges
With Gaza sealed off, global media groups rely heavily on Palestinian reporters for on‑ground coverage.
Humanitarian Concerns
UN agencies warning of a famine highlight the plight of the more than two million Palestinian civilians in Gaza. The UN has urged the Security Council that Israel’s plans to control Gaza City could trigger “another calamity” with far‑reaching consequences.
