Women Journalists Without Chains (WJWC) condemns in the strongest possible terms the recent Israeli military raid on Al Jazeera's office in Ramallah.

This attack, which forced the evacuation of staff, imposed a 45-day closure, and resulted in the removal of the photograph of the martyred journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, is a blatant violation of press freedom and an assault on independent journalism.

WJWC categorically rejects the law enacted by the Israeli Knesset banning foreign media broadcasts in Israel, primarily targeting Al Jazeera. This legislation is an unacceptable attempt to censor independent media platforms and obscure the truth, particularly during the ongoing crisis in Gaza.

We are deeply shocked and saddened by the alarming number of journalists killed in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023. At least 150 journalists have been killed, many while performing their professional duties. This includes several Al Jazeera correspondents and staff from Al Aqsa TV, who have been attacked in their workplaces, homes, and displacement areas. This escalating violence against journalists is a direct attack on press freedom and the public's right to know the truth.

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Tawakkol Karman, head of WJWC, stated: "The systematic targeting of media outlets and journalists is part of an ongoing attempt to silence truth and reinforce policies of repression and occupation. The raid on Al Jazeera's office and the removal of Shireen Abu Akleh's photograph are blatant violations of international principles and laws protecting press freedom and expression."

Karman continued: "The law passed by the Israeli Knesset to prohibit foreign media, particularly Al Jazeera, is an unacceptable measure that reflects a fear of the power of words and images in exposing the violations and atrocities committed against the Palestinian people. This attack is not merely against Al Jazeera; it is an assault on all free voices striving to communicate the truth to the world."

WJWC stands in steadfast solidarity with all journalists who risk their lives to report the truth from conflict zones. We call for impartial international investigations into the grave violations they face. We demand the repeal of the unjust Israeli law and an immediate cessation of attacks against journalists, ensuring their right to cover events without fear of intimidation or repression.

We urge the international community and global media institutions to stand in solidarity with our journalistic colleagues in Palestine, defend their right to operate freely and safely, and hold accountable those responsible for crimes against journalists in conflict areas.

Issued by:

Women Journalists Without Chains

September 22, 2024