Amid genocide in Gaza, why must Palestinian journalists uphold the illusion of neutrality?

In the midst of a brutal genocide unfolding in Gaza, Palestinian journalists are compelled to maintain an illusion of neutrality, despite the toll it takes on their lives and the profession they hold dear. Since October 2023, over 200 media workers have been killed by Israeli forces, surpassing the casualties of major conflicts in history. The Israeli army's killing of journalists is not driven by a justifiable cause, but rather a lack of accountability and immunity from responsibility.

The recent deaths of Al Jazeera Mubasher cameraman Ahmed Wishah and his brother Mohammed Wishah highlight the relentless targeting of journalists by Israeli forces. Ahmed's plea to stop the occupation from killing journalists fell on deaf ears, and he met a similar fate to his brother. The Costs of War Project's study reveals that Gaza has seen more journalist deaths than any other conflict since October 2023.

Palestinian journalists find themselves in a precarious position, forced to document the violence they witness as they endure the onslaught themselves. In a study conducted in April 2025, Reporters Without Borders found that Israel is responsible for nearly half of all journalist killings globally in 2025, making occupied Palestine the most dangerous place for journalists.

In November 2023, Ahmed Wishah found refuge among journalists who set up a tent in a hospital courtyard for their work. He shared their food and bed for a month before being forced to evacuate when the Israeli military invaded Khan Younis. Among those who shared the tent with him were four journalists who would later be killed by the Israeli army. Despite the danger, these journalists continued to document the war, even as they faced direct threats from the occupying force.

The Israeli military's claim that journalists were affiliated with Hamas or acting as witnesses to their attacks is a tactic to deflect criticism and justify their actions. However, documenting the violence is an essential part of a journalist's professional duty, regardless of the danger they face. The killing of these journalists, like Ahmed Wishah, is a tragic reminder of the price they pay for exposing the truth in the face of genocide.