UK Demands Independent Probe After Six Journalists Killed In Gaza Strike
The United Kingdom has called for an independent investigation into an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City that killed six journalists, including five from Al Jazeera, in what press freedom groups have condemned as a grave violation of international humanitarian law.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s spokesman said London was “gravely concerned” about the killings and urged Israel to ensure journalists can work safely without fear.
The UK also stressed the need for impartial scrutiny into the death of prominent correspondent Anas al-Sharif and his colleagues.
The United Nations Human Rights Office also condemned the strike, describing it as a “grave breach of international humanitarian law” and demanding that Israel protect all civilians, including journalists, and allow safe, unhindered media access to Gaza.
Al Jazeera reported that al-Sharif, fellow correspondent Mohammed Qreiqeh, and cameramen Ibrahim Zaher, Mohammed Noufal and Moamen Aliwa were killed when an Israeli strike hit a tent for journalists near the main gate of Gaza City’s al-Shifa Hospital.
A sixth victim, freelance reporter Mohammad al-Khaldi, was also confirmed dead by medics. In total, seven people died in the attack.
A final message posted on al-Sharif’s account after his death said he had “never once hesitated to convey the truth as it is” and urged protection for Gaza’s “wronged and innocent children.”
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) admitted targeting al-Sharif, alleging he was the head of a Hamas “terrorist cell” and producing documents it claimed proved his military ties.
The network and press groups have rejected those accusations, with Al Jazeera’s managing editor, Mohamed Moawad, insisting al-Sharif was “doing one thing – reporting and giving voice to the voiceless inside Gaza.”
The IDF has not commented on the other journalists killed.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) accused Israel of deliberately targeting the press, calling the incident an “acknowledged murder” and part of a “media blackout strategy” in Gaza.
The Committee to Protect Journalists says at least 186 journalists have been killed since the start of Israel’s offensive in October 2023.
Meanwhile, the deceased journalists were buried on Monday afternoon in Gaza.
Funeral processions for the victims drew crowds in Gaza, with mourners lining the streets to pay their respects.
International journalists remain barred from freely entering Gaza, making the work of local reporters indispensable for coverage of the war.
UK Demands Independent Probe After Six Journalists Killed In Gaza Strike is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
