The UN Human Rights Office has denounced an Israeli airstrike in Gaza that killed six journalists — five from Al Jazeera — as a “grave breach” of international humanitarian law, calling for an independent investigation. Among the dead were prominent correspondent Anas al-Sharif and four colleagues, with Israel alleging Sharif led a Hamas “terrorist cell” but providing little verifiable evidence.
Media groups and governments, including the UK, have condemned the attack and urged protection for journalists. The Committee to Protect Journalists says 186 reporters have been killed since October 2023, the deadliest period on record.
The BBC and other outlets say Gaza-based reporters face worsening hardship as Israel blocks international press access. Separately, Gaza’s health ministry reports 222 deaths from malnutrition, including 101 children, as aid remains critically low. Israel denies famine and blames UN agencies for delivery delays. The conflict, sparked by Hamas’ October 7 attack that killed about 1,200 in Israel, has left over 61,000 dead in Gaza.
