Global body demands accountability after deadly attack in Gaza
August 11, 2025 — The United Nations has strongly condemned a targeted Israeli airstrike in Gaza that killed five journalists working for Al Jazeera, calling the incident a grave violation of international humanitarian law and an assault on press freedom.
According to UN officials, the journalists were on assignment covering the ongoing conflict when their clearly marked press vehicle was struck. The attack has sparked outrage worldwide, with human rights advocates warning that targeting media workers undermines the principle of civilian protection in war zones.
In a statement, UN representatives stressed that journalists play an essential role in providing impartial information from conflict areas and must be safeguarded under the Geneva Conventions. They urged a transparent and independent investigation into the strike, emphasizing that those responsible should be held accountable.
The deaths have also reignited calls for stronger protections for media personnel operating in dangerous environments. Press freedom groups say the loss of the Al Jazeera team is not only a tragedy for their families and colleagues but also a blow to the public’s right to know the realities on the ground.
As tensions in Gaza continue to escalate, the UN reiterated its demand for all parties to respect international law, protect civilians, and avoid actions that could further inflame the conflict. The organization warned that impunity for such attacks sets a dangerous precedent for conflicts worldwide.