Paris, The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of journalist Mohamed Naser Abu Huwaidi. Abu Huwaidi, a reporter for the Al-Istiklal newspaper, was fatally injured in an airstrike in the Shajaiah area of Palestine while covering the aftermath of earlier strikes.
According to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the death of Abu Huwaidi marks a grim addition to an already troubling statistic. Since October 2023, at least 23 journalists and media workers have lost their lives in Palestine while performing their duties. This number excludes those who have died in circumstances unrelated to their journalistic work.
UNESCO has long been an advocate for the safety of journalists, engaging in various initiatives to raise global awareness, build capacities, and coordinate the implementation of the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity. The organization emphasizes the critical role of journalists in reporting the truth and maintains that their protection is paramount for the free flow of information and the sustenance of democracies worldwide.
The loss of Abu Huwaidi underscores the increasing dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones. UNESCO continues to call for greater measures to ensure the safety of media personnel and to end impunity for crimes against journalists.