ISRAEL MUST BE SANCTIONED – KILLINGS OF MEDIA WORKERS IS STRONGLY CONDEMNED

The Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organizations (MAPIM) and the Malaysia-Palestine Workers Union ( MPWU ) condemned Israel for the killing of media workers in Gaza.

This condemnation comes amid reports from various organizations highlighting the targeting and deaths of journalists in the region.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has documented that at least 11 journalists and two media workers have been directly targeted and killed by Israeli forces, classifying these incidents as murders.

Additionally, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) reports that at least 139 journalists and media workers have been killed in Gaza.

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has also been gathering information about journalists killed in connection with their work, mainly in the Gaza Strip but also in Lebanon and Israel.

These incidents have drawn international condemnation, with calls for investigations into the targeting of journalists and the protection of press freedom in conflict zones.

We demand Israel be made accountable for the killing of media workers:

1. Hold Israel Accountable:

• Demand an independent international investigation into the targeted killings of media workers.
• Call for Israel to adhere to international laws and conventions that protect journalists in conflict zones, such as the Geneva Conventions.

1. Justice and Reparations:

• Demand prosecution of those responsible for targeting and killing journalists.
• Ensure reparations and compensation for the families of slain media workers.

1. Protection of Media Workers:

• Advocate for the establishment of safe zones for journalists in conflict areas.
• Demand adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 1738, which condemns attacks against journalists, media professionals, and associated personnel.

4.Ceasefire and Humanitarian Efforts*:

• Demand an immediate cessation of hostilities to protect civilians and media workers.
• Call for unfettered access for humanitarian aid and international observers to the affected regions.

5.Freedom of the Press*:

• Call on Israel to lift restrictions on media access to Gaza and other conflict areas.
• Ensure media organizations are free to report without fear of retaliation or violence.

6.International Sanctions and Pressure*:

• Urge the international community to impose sanctions or diplomatic pressure on Israel for violations of international law.
• Push for the inclusion of journalist protection in ongoing peace negotiations or international resolutions.

7.Global Solidarity*:

• Request solidarity from global media organizations to amplify the voices of targeted journalists and their families.
• Encourage the establishment of global funds or initiatives to support journalists working in high-risk areas.

Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid
●President Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organizations

●President Malaysia – Palestine Workers Union