The United Nations emphasized Tuesday that Israel must not only launch investigations into alleged unlawful killings such as the deadly strike on the Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis that claimed the lives of 20 people, including five journalists but also ensure those investigations produce tangible outcomes. UN spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan stated in Geneva: “There needs to be justice,” highlighting the alarming number of media workers killed in Gaza and raising serious concerns over the targeting of journalists. While Israel has pledged to investigate the hospital attack, the UN warns that past inquiries have yet to yield credible results.
Opinion:
This appeal by the UN reflects growing frustration over repeated incidents that threaten press freedom and civilian safety in conflict zones. Journalists play a vital role as neutral witnesses, and their deaths not only represent human tragedy but also erode global transparency about the realities on the ground. Without credible and transparent investigations, such calls for accountability risk becoming symbolic gestures rather than catalysts for change.
Review & Possible Solution:
To restore trust and protect journalists, Israel should allow independent international observers possibly under UN or ICRC supervision to review the chain of command and findings of its investigations. The UN should also consider establishing an international tribunal or inquiry into journalist deaths in Gaza, ensuring accountability beyond internal military reviews. Meanwhile, global media organisations must intensify pressure on Israel and support safety protocols for frontline reporters. In the absence of such measures, continued violence against journalists will deter vital reporting and deepen the humanitarian and democratic deficit in areas of conflict.
