The Canadian Freelance Union condemns the killing of journalists in Gaza and Israel

Friday, October 13, 2023

Canadian Freelance Union (CFU) condemns the recent attacks in Gaza and Israel that resulted in the tragic deaths of ten journalists.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and colleagues of the nine journalists killed while reporting on the ongoing situation in Gaza and the one journalist killed in the Hamas attack against Israel. These brave individuals were dedicated to their profession and committed to providing the public with accurate and impartial information, often putting their lives at risk to do so.

Journalism plays a crucial role in providing the world with information, ensuring transparency, and holding those in power accountable. Targeting journalists is an affront to the principles of freedom of the press and the universal values we espouse.

Attacks on journalists not only have a devastating impact on the families of those affected but also undermine the fundamental principles of democracy and the public’s right to know. The freedom of the press is a cornerstone of any democratic society, and it is our collective responsibility to protect it.

We call upon Israel to respect the lives and safety of journalists who are merely doing their jobs, covering events of global significance. As we condemn such acts, we urge for a full and transparent investigation into these incidents.

It is our hope that this tragedy serves as a reminder of the vital role that journalists play and the importance of safeguarding their ability to report without fear. 

We stand in solidarity with the global journalism community and reiterate our commitment to defending freedom of the press, no matter where in the world it is under threat.

We remember:

Ibrahim Mohammad Lafi, Ain Media, killed in Rafah city, Gaza
Mohammad Jarghoun, Smart Media, killed at Erez Crossing, Gaza
Mohammad Al-Salhi, Fourth Authority, killed in central Gaza
Yaniv Zohar, Israel Hayom, killed at Kibbutz Nahal Oz, Israel
Assaad Shamlakh, freelancer, killed in Sheikh Ijlin southern Gaza
Hisham Alnwajha, Khabar, killed in Rimal district, western Gaza
Mohammed Sobh, Khabar, killed in Rimal district, western Gaza
Saeed al-Taweel, Al-Khamsa News, killed in Rimal district, western Gaza
Mohamed Fayez Abu Matar, freelancer, killed in Rafah city, Gaza
Ahmed Shehab, Radio Voice of the Prisoners, killedin Jabalia, Gaza

For updates on press freedom in Gaza, please consult the Committee to Protect Journalists: https://cpj.org/2023/10/journalist-casualties-in-the-israel-gaza-conflict/

For more information, please contact Nora Loreto, President – president@canadianfreelanceunion.ca or 581 983 4397