United Nations spokesman Stephane Dujarric warned on Friday, on the occasion of the International Day Against Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, about the growing threats facing journalists around the world – especially in Gaza, reports Anadolu.
“Almost nine out of ten murders of journalists remain unsolved. Gaza has become the deadliest place for journalists in any conflict,” Dujarric told reporters.
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called for “independent and impartial” investigations into the murders of journalists, stressing that “impunity is an attack on media freedom and a threat to democracy itself.”
“When journalists are deprived of their voice, we all lose our voice,” said Dujarric.
According to the UN Human Rights Office, at least 248 journalists have been killed in Gaza since October 7, 2023 – more than in any conflict in modern history.
Addressing the current situation in the Gaza Strip, Dujarric said that humanitarian operations are still ongoing despite reports of new Israeli airstrikes across the besieged territory.
“According to local sources, those attacks caused human casualties. We emphasize again that all parties must avoid any activities that endanger civilians, including humanitarian workers, and we remind the Israeli military forces of their obligation to take constant care of the protection of civilians in all operations,” Dujarric said.
He also described the serious deterioration of the health system in Gaza, which continues to face the enormous needs of the population.
“The health system in Gaza continues to struggle to meet the enormous needs of the population,” he said.
Referring to data from the Ministry of Health in Gaza, Dujarric added that as of October 7, 2023, more than 1,700 health workers have lost their lives since the beginning of the war.
A truce based on the plan of US President Donald Trump is currently in force in Gaza, but according to the UN, Israel has repeatedly violated the agreed terms.
(Vijesti.ba)
