What's happened
2025 was the deadliest year for journalists, with over 150 killed, mainly Palestinians in Gaza. Israeli violations included targeted killings, attacks on media facilities, and enforced disappearances. The conflict has severely impacted press freedom and safety for media workers worldwide.
What's behind the headline?
The data reveals an unprecedented assault on press freedom, especially in Gaza, where over 56 Palestinian journalists were killed in 2025. Israel's actions, including strikes on media facilities and accusations of targeting journalists linked to terror groups, highlight a complex legal and ethical landscape. While Israel claims some journalists are combatants, international law protects journalists not participating directly in hostilities. The global picture shows a rise in journalist deaths and imprisonments, with regions like China, Hong Kong, and Europe also experiencing repression. The narrative is driven by conflicting claims: Israel asserts self-defense and combatant targeting, while watchdogs emphasize violations of international law and the dangerous environment for independent journalism. The next phase will likely see increased international scrutiny, calls for accountability, and ongoing risks for journalists in conflict zones.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports on the systematic targeting and violence against Palestinian journalists, emphasizing the scale of violations and the deadliest year on record. The Times of Israel highlights the high number of media professionals killed in Gaza, with specific focus on the Israeli military's claims and the legal protections for journalists. Al Jazeera provides regional context, noting the broader dangers faced by journalists in the Middle East and other conflict zones, and underscores the disproportionate impact on Palestinian media workers. The contrasting perspectives reveal a narrative of Israel defending its actions versus international watchdogs condemning violations of press freedom and humanitarian law. The coverage collectively underscores the severity of the crisis and the urgent need for accountability.
How we got here
The escalation of violence in Gaza, beginning with Hamas' attack on Israel in October 2023, has led to widespread military operations. Israel's response has included extensive strikes and restrictions, significantly affecting journalists. The conflict's intensity and the targeting of media have made Gaza the deadliest region for journalists in recent history.
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Common question
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Why Are Journalists Being Targeted in Gaza?
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has tragically become the deadliest year on record for journalists, with many media workers facing violence, detention, and even death. This raises urgent questions about the safety of press freedom in conflict zones. Why are journalists being targeted, and what does this mean for global media coverage? Below, we explore the reasons behind these dangers and what can be done to protect media workers in war zones.
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What Are the Biggest Stories in Global Conflict Today?
Staying informed about international conflicts is crucial as they shape global stability and security. Recent headlines highlight the deadly targeting of journalists in Gaza, political upheavals in Myanmar, and US military actions in Latin America. These stories raise questions about the state of world peace, the safety of media workers, and the geopolitical implications of recent events. Below, we explore some of the most pressing questions about today's global news landscape.
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Why Are Journalists Under Threat Today?
Journalists face increasing dangers worldwide, especially in conflict zones like Gaza. The year 2025 marked the deadliest year on record for media workers, highlighting the severe risks they encounter. From targeted violence to restrictions on press freedom, understanding these threats is crucial. Below, we explore the main dangers journalists face now, why 2025 was so deadly, how conflicts impact press freedom, and what international efforts are in place to protect media workers.
More on these topics
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.