Five Al Jazeera journalists died in an Israeli strike near Al‑Shifa hospital in Gaza City. Israel confirmed one correspondent was a target. Since October 2023, 186 journalists have been killed in the Gaza Strip.
Attack on Press Tent in Gaza
Five Al Jazeera journalists were killed in an Israeli strike on a press tent near the main gate of Al‑Sh Gaza City. The attack occurred late Sunday evening (August 10). The victims included correspondents Anas al‑Shar and Mohammed Qreiqeh, and operators Ibrahim Zaher, Mohammed Noufal and Moamen Aliwa. Two more people died as well. “This is another blatant and premeditated assault on press freedom,” Al Jazeera Media Network said.
Israel Acknowledges Attack on Journalists Was Targeted
Israel Defence Forces confirmed the attack on the tent was planned. In a statement published on Telegram, they said the target was correspondent Anas al‑Sharif, whom they alleged was “acting as a leader of a Hamas terrorist cell.” The journalist’s employer calls these accusations “false.” The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) notes the Israeli authorities failed to present any evidence that the slain journalists were terrorists. “This is a pattern we have observed in Israel,” said CPJ’s Jodie Ginsberg on BBC. Earlier, the Israeli army had accused the journalist of ties with Hamas. The previous month Al Jazeera, the United Nations and CPJ issued statements warning of the danger to al‑Sharif and calling for his protection. Since October 2023, 186 journalists have died in the Gaza Strip.
Desperate Attempt to Silence
The order to kill Anas al‑Sharif, one of Gaza’s bravest journalists, and his colleagues is a desperate attempt to silence voices exposing the impending occupation of the Gaza Strip,” said Al Jazeera Media Network. The broadcaster emphasized that Anas and his co‑workers were among the last voices from Gaza, providing unfiltered, direct reports from the harrowing reality experienced by its residents. “We condemn these crimes and the attempts by Israeli authorities to silence truth,” Al Jazeera urged the international community and relevant organizations to take decisive actions to stop the ongoing genocide and halt the targeted attacks on journalists. The network added that the perpetrators’ immunity and lack of accountability embolden Israel to continue such operations, urging further pressure on witnesses to truth.
Another Country Recognizes Palestinian State
Meanwhile, Australia announced it would officially recognize Palestinian statehood during the September UN General Assembly. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it presents the greatest chance for peace. A two‑state solution gives hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East, end the conflict, suffering and hunger in Gaza, the Australian government leader said. Currently 147 of 193 UN member states recognize Palestinian independence. Soon Canada and France are expected to join. Their governments announced intentions to recognize the Palestinian state at the September UN General Assembly.
