Palestinian journalist Hassan Hamad was tragically killed in an air strike on his home in Jabalia camp, making him the 175th journalist to be killed since the war began. The 19-year-old had received threats from an Israeli officer days before his death, warning him to stop filming in Gaza. Hamad had been documenting Israel’s war in Gaza for over a year and was a freelance TV reporter. Colleagues and the Government’s Media Office confirmed his death, stating that his home was targeted to silence him.
The Committee to Protect Journalists reported that at least 128 journalists and media workers have been killed in the conflict, which has claimed over 41,000 lives since it began in October 2023. Despite facing threats and danger, Hamad continued to bravely document the conflict, staying away from his family to protect them.
The Israeli government has not commented on Hamad’s death, but condemnation from press freedom advocates has been swift. CPJ Program Director Carlos Martinez de la Serna emphasized the critical role journalists play in uncovering the truth and holding those responsible for their deaths accountable. As journalists continue to risk their lives to report on the conflict in Gaza, the international community must ensure that their sacrifice is not in vain.
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