The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate has condemned the ongoing targeting of journalists amid escalating violence, stating that at least ten journalists were killed by Israeli forces in December.

The report highlights systematic attacks with the majority of incidents occurring in the Gaza Strip.

In their latest report released on Saturday, the Committee detailed that the Israeli military was responsible for 84 violations against Palestinian journalists last month. Among these, a particularly harrowing event saw five journalists killed during a live broadcast.

The violence extended beyond immediate fatalities; the report also noted that eight family members of journalists were killed, three journalists' homes were destroyed, and five journalists sustained serious injuries from gunfire and shrapnel.

Additionally, the report highlighted the harassment and intimidation faced by journalists, with approximately 20 journalists either detained or barred from covering events. Seven journalists remain imprisoned, and there were eleven documented incidents of live ammunition being fired at journalists. Ten journalists also suffered severe physical assaults. The Syndicate noted several cases of equipment damage and theft in both the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

The statement further detailed the various methods used to intimidate the press, including direct threats with weapons, exposure to tear gas, unjust trials, financial penalties, travel restrictions, and vehicular assaults.

The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate has vowed to continue its efforts to defend press freedoms, emphasizing its role in bringing these issues to international attention and forums. This ongoing conflict underscores the perilous environment for journalists operating in the region. (ILKHA)