Lebanon Calls for Urgent Support for Journalists on World Press Freedom Day, Warns of Rising Attacks on Journalists in the Middle East
On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day (3 May), Lebanon’s Permanent Delegation to UNESCO issued a statement warning of the growing number of attacks against journalists in conflict zones and emphasizing the need to protect journalists as civilians entitled to protection under international law. |
The statement expressed appreciation for the efforts of Lebanese media outlets and journalists, describing the situation facing the media in the Middle East as “alarming and unprecedented.” According to the statement, the period from October 2023 to April 2026 was one of the deadliest for media professionals in the region, with a significant increase in targeted attacks against news crews, media vehicles, and journalists’ residences.
The Lebanese Delegation’s statement emphasized that, despite widespread threats, Lebanese journalists continue to fulfill their professional mission of reporting information, documenting events, and conveying the voices of the people.
Emphasizing the Legal Status of Journalists in Conflict Zones
Citing United Nations Security Council Resolution 2222 and Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions, Lebanon’s Permanent Delegation to UNESCO stated that journalists working in war zones are considered civilians and that targeting them constitutes a clear violation of international humanitarian law.
The statement referred to the deaths of Lebanese journalists, including Issam Abdallah and Amal Khalil. It noted that Amal Khalil was pursued and attacked even after taking refuge in a safe location and lost her life after Israeli armed forces prevented emergency responders from reaching her. According to Lebanon, such acts may constitute war crimes under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Legal Action Against Attacks on Journalists
The statement further noted that, in October 2025, the Lebanese government adopted a resolution mandating the Ministry of Justice to pursue legal action against attacks on journalists. Lebanon has also filed multiple complaints against Israel with the United Nations Security Council.
Press Freedom Is Impossible Without Journalists’ Safety
The Lebanese Delegation concluded by emphasizing that press freedom is an essential prerequisite for transparency, accountability, and the achievement of lasting peace, but that this freedom is meaningless without the safety of journalists.
A UNESCO report published in November 2024 also indicates that nearly 85% of cases involving the murder of journalists worldwide remain unprosecuted, highlighting the continued impunity enjoyed by those responsible for violence against the media.
The statement concluded by publishing the names of 26 Lebanese journalists who lost their lives during this period, honoring them as symbols of courage, commitment, and sacrifice in the pursuit of truth.
