CPJ Condemns Israel’s Targeted Actions Against Journalists in Gaza

The U.S.-based Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has accused Israel of using a “deliberate tactic” to suppress media coverage in northern Gaza, preventing documentation of what it described as a campaign of ethnic cleansing. The independent media watchdog asserted that Israel has implemented a “starve or leave” policy to drive Palestinians from northern Gaza amid ongoing military offensives.

CPJ highlighted that almost no professional journalists remain in the region to report on the situation, which multiple international bodies have referred to as ethnic cleansing. According to CPJ Programme Director Carlos Martinez de la Serna, Israeli airstrikes in October resulted in the deaths of at least five journalists, and Israeli forces have reportedly engaged in discrediting campaigns against six Al Jazeera journalists stationed in the north.

“Israel is accused of adopting a ‘starve or leave’ policy to force Palestinians out of northern Gaza,” de la Serna said. “The systematic targeting of media and the efforts to discredit the few journalists who remain appear aimed at preventing global awareness of Israel’s actions.”

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) echoed CPJ’s condemnation, urging Israel to cease its attacks on journalists and media facilities, which they argue are designed to conceal the reality of the situation. CAIR called for international media access to document the events, alleging that Israel’s campaign in Gaza constitutes ethnic cleansing, mass destruction, and deliberate starvation.

Freelance documentary producer Osama Al Ashi reported to CPJ that Israeli forces have restricted journalists from approaching bombed areas, hindering their ability to record evidence of the destruction and alleged violations. Reports from the region indicate extensive destruction, including attacks on schools, hospitals, and medical staff, leading to numerous casualties and mass displacement.