189 Palestinian Journalists Killed as Major News Agencies Demand Gaza Access

A powerful coalition of leading international news organizations, including the BBC, Reuters, Agence France-Presse (AFP), and The Associated Press (AP), has intensified its call for independent foreign journalist access to Gaza. The agencies released a short film, narrated by veteran BBC journalist David Dimbleby, highlighting the critical role of independent reporting in conflict zones and the "terrible cost" borne by Palestinian journalists. This unified demand comes nearly two two years after reporting in Gaza was restricted following the October 7, 2023, attacks.

The film, which premiered in New York City coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly, uses iconic historical war coverage to underscore the importance of journalists bearing witness. BBC News CEO Deborah Turness stated, "As journalists, we record the first draft of history. But in this conflict, reporting is falling solely to a small number of Palestinian journalists, who are paying a terrible cost." She added that "almost two years since October 7, when the world witnessed Hamas’ atrocities... international journalists are not allowed in. We must now be let into Gaza."

Since October 7, 2023, Israel has largely prohibited independent foreign media from entering Gaza, citing security concerns. The Israeli High Court of Justice has upheld these restrictions, arguing that guaranteeing journalists' safety would divert military resources and that the situation remains too dangerous for independent access. While a small number of foreign journalists have been permitted entry under military escort, these trips are tightly controlled, with restrictions on movement and interaction with Palestinians.

Press freedom organizations, including the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), have strongly criticized the ban, labeling it "draconian" and expressing concern that it serves to control the narrative. According to multiple reports, at least 189 Palestinian journalists have been killed during the conflict, making Gaza one of the most perilous places for media professionals. The concerted effort by global news agencies seeks to allow international reporters to "share the burden" with their Palestinian colleagues and ensure comprehensive, independent coverage of the ongoing humanitarian crisis and conflict.