Reporters Without Borders (RSF) calls for an independent investigation of these killings and for Israel to stop targeting journalists. More than 130 media professionals have been killed in Gaza by the Israeli army since 7 October, including at least 31 while doing their job.

When questioned about targeting journalists, the Israeli army usually replies that these accusations “are false,” despite mounting evidence to the contrary. Yet the day after their attack on Ismail al-Ghoul’s car, the army took responsibility for killing the 27-year-old, stating on X (formerly Twitter) that it had eliminated a “terrorist” and “journalist.” Since then, the IDF’s official position has consisted of accusations discrediting al-Ghoul – without mentioning his cameraman Rami al-Rifi, who was also killed in the attack – based on insufficient, questionable evidence, according to RSF’s analysis.