The Washington Centre for Human Rights (WCHR) is an independent and non-partisan advocacy organization devoted to safeguard human rights around the world; hereby strongly condemns the senseless murder of Palestinian journalists in Gaza, as it has been reported in the recent articles that cited Israel as the war criminals.
These have been acts of specific attacks of media personnel against the international law of humanitarian practices and against the freedom of the press in conflict areas and right to information of people.
Scale of the Crisis
With the war erupting in October 2023, over 240 journalists have become casualties this figure is hitherto unprecedented in the journalism field where media practitioners would be willing to deliver information to the war fronts at all cost. Whether the action is deliberate targeting or careless disregard of the security of the civilians, this is a direct challenge of human dignity and the ideals of justice.
Call for International Accountability
Considering the case that has been recently filed by several non-governmental organizations in the International Criminal Court (ICC), WCHR would like the ICC Prosecutor to swiftly, impartially and transparently investigate these serious accusations of war crimes.
We also urge the United Nations, UN Human Rights Council and the office of the high commissioner of human rights, to expedite decisive action to become compliant with international standards of law and provide effective safeguards to journalists in war torn countries.
Appeal to Governments and Global Institutions
Securing the intervention of allied governments, international, and multilateral organizations observations such as International Federation of Journalists, Reporters without Borders, and humanitarian agencies, the Washington Centre of Human Rights urges agencies in the related scenes to coordinate quick actions that provide confidence to journalists in Gaza and other conflict areas as well as maintaining the independent reporting medium and ensuring that leaders who do so are given full justice. Safety of journalists is not a matter of choice but part and parcel of the international community.
Upholding Media Freedom and Human Rights
Independence of the press and the security of reporters are not involved in terms of democracy and accountability. Intentional killing and endangers of journalists erode the free access to truthful information, as well as the perpetuation of violence and impunity.
These are heinous offences against international law and universal moral responsibility. All human rights-loving states and institutions should ensure the safety of journalists.
Commitment to Justice
The Washington Centre for Human Rights redefines its stand concerning the need to support the rights of the people who have been victims of human rights violations all over the world. Ordinary people are going to keep promoting legal and diplomatic efforts at apprehending those in charge.
We share sympathy with the relatives of deceased journalists as well as the Palestinian society at large and gain justice, truth, and the unconditional respect of fundamental human rights.