RSF dedicates over 100,000 euros to support 250 journalists in Gaza
Journalism is now nearly impossible in Gaza, as the number of journalists killed by the Israeli army has steadily risen since 7 October and the territory remains blocked to foreign reporters. To help over 250 of Gaza’s last reporters continue their work, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) dedicated over 100,000 euros to support the independent press with its local partner Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ).
At least 130 journalists have been killed by the Israeli army in Gaza since October 7 2023, and most media offices have been destroyed. Yet RSF has relentlessly continued supporting reporters in the besieged enclave despite severe restrictions on access.
Most notably, RSF dedicated over 100,000 euros in emergency aid for journalism in Gaza. Thanks to its local partner, ARIJ, more than 250 journalists working from Gaza for international and local media gained access to professional equipment and humanitarian assistance. These funds have also helped furnish renovate and build dedicated spaces for journalists to meet and work, despite the many forced displacements they have suffered since 7 October. Solar panels have also been installed to ensure a continuous energy supply amid frequent power outages. A special space for women journalists has also been opened with ARIJ’s help.
"The number of journalists killed by the Israeli army continues to rise. This means that coverage of the war depends on a decreasing number of journalists who risk their lives every day to keep us informed. RSF is at their side. Thanks to our support, made possible by our local partner ARIJ, more than 250 journalists can now access secure workspaces and equipment, replacing what was confiscated and destroyed. We repeat our relentless call for the protection of Gaza's journalists and foreign media access to the territory. Gaza must not become an information black hole."
“The journalists in Gaza face unprecedented challenges. They are reporting on a war they are living through. They’ve suffered immense losses, yet continue to work under these dire conditions. While we can’t change their reality, we can provide the equipment they need to keep reporting, thanks to RSF and the team of the Palestinian production agency Media Town working with us on the ground. The journalists are our colleagues and the world’s only window into Gaza. Our work goes beyond supplying equipment; it empowers them to continue their crucial work.”
RSF and ARIJ’s aid work since October 7 2023
Urgent requests for support from journalists are intensifying as the war in Gaza continues. According to ARIJ, their teams on the ground are facing "insurmountable challenges," as they work to find and deliver equipment to journalists. In recent months, Israeli strikes have covered the entire Gaza territory, forcing journalists to move constantly to avoid the daily attacks.
According to RSF's count, over 130 journalists have been killed in Gaza since October 7 by the Israeli army. At least 31 were killed while working.
RSF has already lodged three complaints with the International Criminal Court of war crimes committed against reporters in Gaza. The territory remains almost completely isolated from the outside world, a situation worsened by damaged communications infrastructure, destroyed media offices, and lack of access to foreign journalists.
Due to the blockade Israel imposed on Gaza, reporters struggle daily to find water, food and money to cope with soaring prices. The list of those in need of help continues to grow.
