The Palestinian Journalists' Syndicate revealed a grim toll on Sunday, reporting that 193 journalists were killed by Israeli occupation forces in the Gaza Strip during 2024.

This announcement was made during the annual Freedom Conference, held under the theme A Wounded Voice and a Clearer Image, at the Syndicate's headquarters in Ramallah.

Nasser Abu Bakr, head of the Syndicate, praised the resilience of Palestinian journalists, who have faced relentless violence while courageously documenting the truth amid Israeli aggression. "Despite killings, bombings, and destruction, Palestinian journalists remain committed to exposing the realities on the ground," he said. The Syndicate plans to submit a third complaint to the International Criminal Court (ICC) to hold Israel accountable for its systematic attacks on journalists.

Mohammad al-Laham, chair of the Syndicate's Freedom Committee, presented a sobering annual report during the conference. The report highlighted that 86 journalists were injured by live ammunition and rocket shrapnel in 2024, with the number of fatalities surpassing injuries—indicating the deliberate targeting of journalists.

In addition to killings and injuries, the report documented 64 detentions of journalists by Israeli occupation forces across Gaza and the West Bank, as well as the destruction or seizure of 54 media institutions. Israeli forces have also used military vehicles to intentionally endanger journalists and prevent them from documenting the truth.

Al-Laham underscored an alarming increase in live fire directed at journalists, with 148 incidents resulting in injuries. Toxic gas inhalation and tear gas canister attacks added to the toll, with 85 reported cases. These actions aim to intimidate and silence the media.

The report shed light on the broader restrictions imposed on journalists, including detentions, threats, kidnappings, and disruptions to press activities. Israeli forces have also targeted communication networks and hacked Palestinian content on social media platforms, further stifling journalistic freedom.

Despite these oppressive measures, Palestinian journalists remain steadfast in their mission to expose the atrocities committed against their people. The Syndicate called on the international community to recognize these crimes against journalists as violations of press freedom and fundamental human rights.

The conference concluded with a renewed commitment to advocating for justice and amplifying the voices of those who risk their lives to tell the stories of Palestine’s ongoing struggle. (ILKHA)