French Journalist Associations Demand Access to Gaza
The Collective of Journalists' Associations, including Le Monde's Association of Journalists, urges international bodies and world leaders to pressure Israel to grant press access to the Gaza Strip. This comes amid intense fighting and Israeli bombardment, which has resulted in tens of thousands of Palestinian casualties and widespread destruction.
Israel has prohibited press entry into Gaza for the past year, hindering firsthand reporting. Palestinian journalists trapped in the enclave face significant risks, with over 100 killed, including several dozen while on assignment.
This unprecedented situation undermines the right to information and freedom of expression, fundamental principles of democracy. Disinformation and lies thrive when journalists are prevented from reporting freely.
1. Protect journalists' safety in Gaza.
2. Open Gaza to international press, allowing unfettered reporting.
3. Uphold Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, ensuring the right to inform and be informed.
The international community must defend press freedom and demand access to Gaza, enabling journalists to bear witness to this devastating conflict.
The Gaza Strip has endured intense fighting and Israeli bombardment for the past year, following Hamas's massacres and hostage-taking on October 7, 2023. Despite this, Israel continues to deny press entry into the enclave ¹. This restriction prevents firsthand reporting on the devastating impact of the conflict, including massive destruction and tens of thousands of Palestinian casualties.
*Journalists Under Siege*
Palestinian journalists trapped in Gaza face extreme risks, with over 100 killed, including several dozen while on assignment ¹. They lack protection, endure displacement, and face endangered lives. Power cuts and communications blackouts hinder their ability to report to the outside world.
*Disinformation and Danger*
Preventing journalists from reporting freely fuels disinformation and lies, undermining truth and accountability ¹. In armed conflicts, journalists play a crucial role in exposing human rights abuses and promoting transparency.
Unfettered reporting is essential in conflict zones. The international community must demand press access to Gaza to ensure the truth is revealed.
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