At least 27 Journalists killed in Lebanon as violence escalates
At least 27 journalists have been killed in Lebanon since early March, according to the Lebanese Press Syndicate, as violence continues to escalate across the country, reports AL24 News via agencies on April 23rd.
The latest attack, which struck the southern town of Tayri on April 22nd, killed reporter Amal Khalil and injured her colleague Zeinab Faraj.
In a statement issued on April 23rd, the syndicate condemned the incident, describing it as part of a growing pattern of attacks affecting media workers. Khalil had previously received reported threats, raising concerns among press groups about the safety of journalists operating in conflict zones.
“With her killing, the number of journalists and media workers killed has risen to 27, in addition to a large number of injured,” the syndicate said, warning that conditions for reporting in Lebanon have become increasingly dangerous.
The organisation also alleged that journalists have been deliberately targeted, and called for urgent support from regional and international press bodies. It urged coordination with groups such as the Lebanese army, UN peacekeeping forces, and emergency services to reduce risks for reporters on the ground.
According to Lebanon’s state news agency, access to the wounded in April 22nd’s attack was delayed after roads linking Tayri to nearby areas were struck, as a result, complicating rescue efforts.
The violence forms part of a wider escalation that has, since March 2, reportedly killed more than 2,400 people, injured thousands, and displaced over 1.6 million civilians, according to official figures.
A 10-day ceasefire announced on April 16 is due to expire this weekend, but reports suggest it has been repeatedly violated, raising fears of further instability.
The press syndicate has called on the Lebanese government to pursue legal and diplomatic action internationally, while urging journalists in high-risk areas to take additional precautions as the situation remains volatile.
AL24 News, Maghrebi.org
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