Record Journalist Deaths in 2025: Israel's Role Under Scrutiny

A report from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has revealed that 2025 was the deadliest year for journalists, with a record 129 media workers killed globally. Israel was responsible for approximately two-thirds of these fatalities, marking a significant escalation in violence against the press, particularly targeting Palestinian journalists in Gaza.

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The CPJ's findings indicate that the majority of journalist deaths occurred in conflict zones, with over three-quarters of the fatalities linked to armed conflicts. Notably, the report highlights an alarming increase in the use of drones for attacks on journalists, with Israel accounting for 28 of the 39 documented drone-related killings. In stark contrast, only nine journalists were killed in Sudan and four in Ukraine during the same period, underscoring Israel's disproportionate impact on journalist safety.

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The CPJ report emphasizes a persistent culture of impunity surrounding attacks on journalists, with very few transparent investigations conducted into the 47 targeted killings classified as murder in 2025. Jodie Ginsberg, CPJ's Executive Director, stated, "Attacks on the media are a leading indicator of attacks on other freedoms, and much more needs to be done to prevent these killings and punish the perpetrators." The report calls for radical reforms in how governments investigate journalist deaths, including the establishment of an international investigative task force.

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The rising number of journalist fatalities is not only a pressing issue for press freedom but also indicative of broader societal threats. The CPJ warns that the failure of governments to protect journalists and hold attackers accountable lays the groundwork for further violence, even in countries not currently at war. The report also notes that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza complicates independent investigations, potentially obscuring the true extent of journalist casualties.

Israel responsible for two-thirds of journalist deaths in 2025: Watchdog

While the CPJ attributes at least 86 journalist deaths directly to Israeli actions, other sources report varying figures, with some stating that at least 84 journalists were killed by Israel. The discrepancies highlight the challenges in accurately documenting journalist fatalities amid ongoing conflict and restricted access to information.

Common DreamsIsrael responsible for most journalist deaths in record year: WatchdogIsrael responsible for two-thirds of journalist deaths in 2025: WatchdogMiddle East MonitorNewsLaundry

• “Journalists are being killed in unprecedented numbers at a time when access to information is more critical than ever.” — Jodie Ginsberg, Executive Director, Committee to Protect Journalists

Israel Responsible for Two-Thirds of Record High Journalist Deaths in 2025

• “No one has been held accountable in any of the cases.” — Committee to Protect Journalists report

Middle East Monitor

• “Israel has now killed more journalists than any other government since CPJ began collecting records in 1992,” — Committee to Protect Journalists report

NewsLaundry

The CPJ's findings underscore a critical moment for press freedom, with calls for urgent action to protect journalists and ensure accountability for those who attack the media.

Common Dreams