'Inside Gaza': Reporting a war when it hits home

Inside Gaza is a documentary that explores the challenges faced by journalists reporting on a war when they become victims themselves. The film follows AFP journalists who were trapped in Gaza following Israel's response to Hamas' Oct 7 attack, which resulted in over 1,200 civilian deaths and more than 200 hostages taken. As the conflict intensified, the borders of Gaza were sealed and international journalists were barred from entering. Without local journalists, the outside world would have had no knowledge of the situation.

AFP's local staff, comprised of experienced reporters, photographers, and videojournalists, documented Gaza's descent into violence and despair. However, their work was met with skepticism and sometimes outright censorship. Israeli propagandists even questioned the authenticity of genuine photos of a dead child, claiming it was staged using a doll. The frustration of the journalists is palpable in the film.

AFP's Gaza bureau chief, Adel Zaanoun, expressed frustration that some of their images were not used by world media outlets. The team felt that the countless Palestinians killed during the war were not being given the coverage they deserved. As journalism faces declining engagement and increasing scrutiny, it is crucial for the public to understand the costs and risks journalists face, including becoming targets themselves. In Gaza, journalists have been killed, attacked, and persecuted.

The film sheds light on the vital role journalists play in reporting from the front lines and the importance of defending their freedom. With its numerous international awards and Oscar contention, Inside Gaza aims to bring attention to the ongoing threat to journalism and the journalists who risk their lives to bring us the truth.