Using Gaza’s reporters but not protecting them

JVL Introduction

Journalists in Gaza operate under great risk, indeed in June 2026 a report showed that it was the Deadliest Place for Journalists in the World. Other than very occasionally and under very strict Israeli military control, no journalists from outside Gaza have been allowed in and so we are all dependent on these courageous people for the information that we have and that outlets use.  However, most are not employed by these media outlets but operate as freelancers, paid per story and so there is no responsibility taken if they are injured, or their equipment is damaged or destroyed, that rests on the backs of the individual journalist.

Here there is finally some attention given to this situation made worse as Gaza is no longer a key interest for most media outlets, as though the ceasefire were real, as though the story has ended, as though people are now housed, well nourished, their education and health care needs sorted.  Many of us are still interested in what is happening to the people and the places in Gaza.  We need these people and they deserve proper contracts.

This article was originally published by Mondoweiss on Tue 20 Oct 2026. Read the original here.