UN Expert: Media Restrictions, Journalist Killings Have Shielded Gaza Genocide from Scrutiny

UN Expert: Media Restrictions, Journalist Killings Have Shielded Gaza Genocide from Scrutiny
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UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese has accused Israel of killing Palestinian journalists, restricting information and using censorship to conceal alleged crimes in Gaza, describing the pattern as “mediacide” in a report presented to the UN General Assembly.

According to the report, nearly 300 journalists have been killed and more than 400 wounded by Israeli forces since October 2023. Albanese also cited the destruction of communications infrastructure, detention of media workers and restrictions on foreign journalists entering Gaza, arguing that these measures undermine documentation and accountability.

The report further criticizes influential Western media outlets and digital platforms for amplifying unverified claims, omitting context and suppressing Palestinian content. Albanese called on states to preserve evidence, investigate attacks on journalists, cooperate with the International Criminal Court and press for the release of detained journalists and access for international media to Gaza.