The United Nations has warned that Gaza remains the deadliest place for journalists compared to any other conflict in the modern era.
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric highlighted the risks journalists face globally, particularly in the Gaza Strip, ahead of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists. “Nearly nine out of ten journalist killings go unresolved. Gaza has been the deadliest location for journalists of any conflict,” Dujarric said.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for independent and impartial investigations into journalist killings, emphasizing that impunity is “an attack on press freedom and a threat to democracy itself.” Dujarric added, “When journalists are silenced, we all lose our voice.”
According to the UN Human Rights Office, at least 248 journalists have been killed in Gaza since October 7, 2023, more than in any other recent conflict.
Dujarric also raised concerns over the ongoing humanitarian operations amid renewed Israeli airstrikes. “All parties must avoid actions that put civilians, including aid workers, at risk. The Israeli military must show constant care to protect them during all operations,” he stressed.
The UN spokesperson further highlighted the collapse of Gaza’s health system, which continues to struggle under the massive needs of the population. According to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, more than 1,700 healthcare workers have been killed since the start of the 2023 conflict.
A ceasefire remains in effect based on a 20-point plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, although Israel has violated it several times, Dujarric noted.
