MFC members issue statement on journalists in the Middle East

The undersigned members of the Media Freedom Coalition express their deep concern for the safety of journalists and the repercussions for access to information in the Middle East, in light of the regional escalation. The safety of journalists and media workers, and the access to information are under serious threat. 

During conflicts, independent media coverage helps provide accurate and timely information that is critical for the communities affected. Factual, timely reporting can save lives and livelihoods. Journalists and media workers play an indispensable role in informing the world about events occurring in areas of conflict.

We witness an unacceptable trend with fatalities, arrests, and detentions. We see this throughout the broader region effected by the regional escalation. In Gaza and Lebanon many journalists and media workers have been killed in the context of the hostilities since October 7, 2023. Restrictions on access for journalists in conflict areas have also increased. In Gaza, for over two years the Government of Israel has blocked the access of journalists from independently entering and prevented them from shining a light on the realities of war. Hamas is restricting journalists in Gaza to report freely, with its long documented use of violence and intimidation. In Iran we witness a violent crackdown on journalists and freedom of information, also via internet shutdowns. We strongly condemn all forms of violence directed against journalists and media workers, including media infrastructure, press facilities, and clearly marked media vehicles.

These incidents raise serious concerns regarding the protection of media personnel under international humanitarian law and the erosion of press freedom and freedom of expression in conflict settings. We urge all involved parties to adhere to international humanitarian law. All civilians, including journalists, must be protected. Deliberate attacks against journalists are unacceptable and may constitute a war crime. Detained journalists must be treated in accordance with international law.

Restrictions on access for journalists in conflict areas have also increased. We condemn any restrictions on free and independent information.

The undersigned members of the Media Freedom Coalition call upon all parties to ensure the protection of journalists and media workers in the Middle East, in accordance with international law. We call for all attacks against media workers to be investigated and for those responsible to be held accountable in compliance with national and international law.