Journalists in Gaza are adapting to extreme conditions while covering ongoing conflicts. Many are currently working out of tents set up near hospitals, the only locations in the region with reliable power for charging equipment and functioning internet. Due to extensive power outages, these journalists face shortages of basic necessities such as water and sanitation. The current situation follows nearly two years of warfare that has resulted in significant dangers for media personnel; around 197 journalists have been reported killed since the onset of hostilities after the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, with the majority being Palestinians.
Despite the dangers, demand for news coverage remains high, prompting many young, inexperienced individuals to step into journalism roles. The risk to journalists in the region has been compounded by Israeli strikes, leading to concerns about safety. For instance, on one day alone, five journalists were killed in an Israeli strike on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis.
International media relies heavily on local journalists since access to Gaza for foreign reporters is severely restricted. Reporters express a constant fear for their safety, stating that they feel targeted. The Israeli military has denied allegations that it intentionally targets media personnel but has acknowledged specific strikes on journalists under the assertion they were involved with terrorist activities. However, organizations like the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) argue that these claims lack substantiation and suggest a deliberate effort to suppress information about military operations.
The increasingly dire humanitarian situation has also affected journalists, who report facing severe hunger themselves. Recent assessments indicate a rise in food insecurity, with significant portions of the population experiencing starvation, conditions journalists also endure while trying to report. This leads to significant mental and emotional strain, affecting their work and personal well-being amid ongoing hostilities.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crm49zxyn0go?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss