An Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon has reportedly resulted in the deaths of three journalists, as tensions escalate along Israel's northern border. Lebanese media, including the state-run National News Agency, reported that the attack occurred in the Tayr Harfa area, located approximately 1.6 kilometers from the Israeli border.
Victims Identified as Al Mayadeen Journalists
Among the deceased were two staff members from the Lebanese channel Al Mayadeen TV. The channel confirmed that correspondent Farah Omar and cameraman Rabih Me’mari were killed in what they described as a direct attack. A third victim was identified as a local journalist who contributed to the channel. Al Mayadeen’s director, Ghassan bin Jiddo, asserted that the strike was intentional and followed an Israeli government decision to block access to their website.
Allegations of Targeting Journalists
Al Jazeera correspondent Zeina Khodr, reporting from southern Lebanon, stated, “Another attack has targeted journalists in southern Lebanon, killing a reporter and a cameraman who worked for the pan-Arabic channel Al Mayadeen.” She emphasized that there is a prevailing sentiment that the Israeli army aims to silence the media and intimidate journalists.
Israeli Government's Actions Against Media Outlets
In recent weeks, the Israeli government blacklisted Al Mayadeen TV, accusing it of jeopardizing national security and collaborating with hostile entities. Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi announced plans to block the channel’s websites and programming while also shutting down its local offices.
Calls for Investigation
In light of the attack, the Lebanese information minister has urged the military to investigate the incident. This marks the third assault on journalists in southern Lebanon since October 13, according to reports.
Ongoing Conflict and Rising Casualties
The Israeli military has stated it is "looking into the details" of the incident. The recent fatalities bring the total number of journalists killed during the ongoing conflict in Gaza to at least 50, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. Most of the deceased journalists have been Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Since the onset of Israel's military operations in Gaza on October 7, following a Hamas attack on Israeli territory, hostilities have intensified along the Israel-Lebanon border, resulting in casualties on both sides. Reports indicate that at least 70 Hezbollah fighters, 13 Lebanese civilians, seven Israeli soldiers, and three Israeli civilians have died in this latest escalation, which is considered the most severe since 2006.
With inputs from Reuters
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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