Statement from the President of the Association of European Journalists

Today, our hearts are heavy as we mourn the tragic loss of five Al Jazeera journalists-including respected correspondent Anas al-Sharif-killed in an Israeli airstrike on a tent outside al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. Their deaths are not only a profound human tragedy, but also a chilling blow to press freedom and the safety of those who risk everything to report the truth.

We vehemently condemn this attack. Targeting journalists is an assault on the very foundations of free societies, and such actions must be investigated thoroughly. We demand an immediate, impartial, and transparent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding their deaths. Allegations accusing the journalists-particularly Anas al-Sharif-of militant involvement have been made by Israeli authorities. However, these claims remain unverified and have been widely challenged by Al Jazeera and respected press freedom organizations.

Anas al-Sharif and his colleagues were among the few remaining journalistic voices in Gaza. Their reporting shed light on the suffering of civilians amidst conflict, and their courageous work must not be silenced. We call on international bodies, media organizations, and governments to unite in defending press freedom and ensuring accountability.

Journalists are not targets-they are our window to the world's truth.

In solidarity,
Arber Hitaj
President, Association of European Journalists