Journalism will win in the end, Freedom will win in the end
Al Jazeera’s Tamer Almisshal calls upon everyone working to protect journalists and human rights to do more for their colleagues in Gaza. Journalism is not a crime, the former BBC-correspondent reiterates in meeting with PEN Norway.
On Wednesday, September 11, PEN Norway hosted Tamer Almisshal, a producer and presenter of investigative programs for Al Jazeera Television. Mr. Almisshal, who has extensively covered the Palestine-Israel conflict for Al Jazeera and previously worked with the BBC, is one of the most recognized faces in the Arab world. He has also reported on the wars in Libya and Syria.
At PEN Norway, Mr. Almisshal spoke about the increasing number of deadly attacks on journalists and media workers in the conflict-ridden Gaza Strip. “It’s a very difficult situation, and it’s time to say enough to killing journalists. Journalism is not a crime. We call for support and protection for our journalists and our colleagues in the Gaza Strip.”
He revealed that more than 170 journalists have been killed, 200 injured, 50 arrested, and 40 tortured since the conflict between Hamas and Israel began last October. “Media professionals are working under severe restrictions. We call upon journalists from outside to come and cover the conflict. It is a journalistic right to cover a war zone. It is not acceptable to close the border to journalists,” he said.
“We are calling on all associations and everyone working to protect journalists and human rights to do more. What they are doing is good, but it is not enough. It has not changed what is happening on the ground. There is an increase in the number of journalists killed and crimes against journalists in Gaza. We support any initiative, effort, or action to help and protect our colleagues on the ground in Gaza.”
Mr. Almisshal also spoke about the lack of safety and medical equipment for journalists working in Gaza. “Lacking basic necessities such as protective gear, access to medical treatment, and adequate food makes the conditions even more distressing.” He highlighted the humanitarian crisis in the region, where journalists are deprived of medical facilities, face severe food shortages, and often survive on only one meal a day while living in shelters or tents, yet continue their work under these dire circumstances.
“Despite all the challenges, we believe that journalism will win. History shows this. Journalism will win in the end. Freedom will win in the end,” he said.
He reiterated his call and appealed the Israeli government to grant foreign journalists access to Gaza.
PEN Norway supports Mr. Almisshal’s appeal and urges the Israeli authorities to immediately lift restrictions on foreign correspondents entering Gaza and to ensure the safety and security of local journalists working there with limited resources.
PEN Norway stands in solidarity with the journalistic community affected by the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel and will continue to monitor the situation.
