I condemn the killing of Rami Bdeir and call for a thorough investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. I reiterate my urgent call on all parties to respect UN Security Council Resolution 2222 unanimously adopted in 2015 on the protection of journalists, media professionals and associated personnel as civilians in situations of conflict. Journalists play a critical role in ensuring the population's right to information during conflicts.
Audrey AzoulayUNESCO Director-General
Rami Bdeir was correspondent for the media outlet News Press. He was covering airstrikes in Khan Yunis when he was reportedly killed by a sniper while attempting to rescue another journalist.
UNESCO has reported the deaths of at least 27 journalists and media workers in the line of work in Palestine since October 2023, which does not include deaths in circumstances unrelated to their profession.
UNESCO promotes the safety of journalists through global awareness-raising, capacity building and by coordinating the implementation of the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.
