Ankara: Members of the Media Freedom Coalition called on Israel on Thursday to provide independent foreign journalists immediate access to Gaza, citing the deteriorating humanitarian situation and growing concerns about press freedom.
According to Anadolu Agency, in a joint statement, 26 countries, including Australia, Germany, Japan, the UK, and several EU member states, urged Israel to "allow immediate independent foreign media access and afford protection to journalists operating in Gaza." The coalition emphasized the critical role that journalists play in documenting wartime conditions.
The statement highlighted the importance of access to conflict zones for journalists to carry out their roles effectively. The coalition expressed strong opposition to any attempts to restrict press freedom and block entry to journalists during conflicts. Additionally, the group condemned violence against journalists, pointing out the "extremely high number of fatalities, arrests, and detentions" since the war began.
The coalition's statement stressed that the deliberate targeting of journalists is unacceptable and reminded that international humanitarian law protects civilian journalists during armed conflict. The group urged Israeli authorities and "all other parties" to ensure that local and foreign journalists in Gaza, Israel, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem can work freely and safely.
Furthermore, the coalition demanded investigations into attacks on journalists and accountability for those responsible, insisting on compliance with national and international law. Beyond press freedom, the statement reiterated calls for an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of remaining hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access to Gaza.
The statement also reaffirmed support for a two-state solution to ensure "long-term peace and security." As the military campaign has devastated Gaza, with Israel killing nearly 62,200 Palestinians since October 2023, the enclave is now facing famine.
In a related development, last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Israel is also facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in the enclave.