An International Coalition Calls on Israel to Allow Journalists Immediate Access to Gaza and Ensure Their Protection

28 countries, including France, Britain, and Germany, have called on Israel to open the door for independent foreign journalists to enter the Gaza Strip without restrictions, to ensure genuine field coverage of the deteriorating humanitarian situation.

The statement issued by the International Coalition for Freedom of the Press emphasized that access for journalists to conflict areas is essential for documenting events and exposing violations, reiterating the rejection of any attempts to restrict press freedom or prevent media workers from performing their duties.

The statement highlighted the seriousness of the situation in Gaza, where most journalists have only been allowed to enter accompanied by the Israeli army and under strict controls, despite Netanyahu's statements about increasing the number of foreign journalists.

The coalition stressed the importance of protecting journalists from assaults and killings, noting that 242 journalists have been killed since the start of the war according to UN estimates, demanding guarantees for humanitarian aid access, a ceasefire, and efforts towards a two-state solution for lasting peace.