Gaza: The Arab League has strongly condemned the unprecedented killing of Palestinian journalists and Israel’s security clampdown on press freedom, including the ban on foreign media entry into Gaza.
According to Qatar News Agency, in a statement marking World Press Freedom Day, Assistant Secretary General and Supervisor of the Media and Communication Sector at the Arab League, Ambassador Ahmed Rashid Khattabi emphasized that this year’s commemoration comes under exceptional circumstances, amid Israel’s ongoing aggression on Gaza and daily attacks in the occupied Palestinian territories. The violence has resulted in thousands of casualties, mostly women and children, while humanitarian aid remains blocked.
He stated that Israel’s actions, restricting press freedom and banning foreign media in Gaza, have led to the killing of an unprecedented 209 Palestinian journalists, in flagrant violation of international laws.
Khattabi praised credible independent journalism, which has challenged Israeli narratives, and urged serious consideration of legal mechanisms to protect journalists in conflict zones. He advocated for updating legislative frameworks to address modern challenges, through multilateral engagement within international and regional organizations to establish legal safeguards for journalists, ensuring their physical and moral safety while they perform their duties.
The Assistant Secretary-General stressed the importance of free and independent journalism in building democratic societies and raising public awareness, underscoring the need for a balance between ethical journalism and professional integrity. He reiterated that a safe media environment is essential for freedom of expression and access to information, while emphasizing responsible reporting, to prevent misinformation and protect liberties.
The international community commemorates World Press Freedom Day annually on May 3, following its designation by the UN General Assembly in December 1993, based on a recommendation from UNESCO’s 26th General Conference. The observance serves as a crucial occasion to honor media professionals, particularly those who make significant sacrifices to report the truth and defend freedom of expression amid adversity worldwide.