Lebanon has accused Israel of committing war crimes following an air strike in southern Lebanon that killed a journalist and wounded another, intensifying scrutiny over the safety of media workers in conflict zones.
The strike, which occurred on Wednesday, killed Amal Khalil, a 43-year-old reporter for the Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar, and injured freelance photographer Zeinab Faraj. According to Lebanese officials, the two were initially caught near a vehicle hit by an air strike before seeking shelter in a nearby house, which was later struck again.
Authorities in Beirut claim the follow-up strike deliberately targeted the journalists and accuse Israeli forces of preventing emergency responders from reaching the scene. The Lebanese health ministry further alleged that a clearly marked ambulance operated by the Red Cross was also targeted, calling it a “blatant violation” of international humanitarian law.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the incident, stating that “targeting journalists, obstructing access to them by relief teams, and even targeting their locations again” constitutes war crimes. He vowed that Lebanon would pursue accountability through international legal channels.
In contrast, the Israel Defense Forces denied intentionally targeting journalists. The military said it struck vehicles it identified as posing an “immediate threat” after departing from a structure allegedly used by Hezbollah. It also rejected claims that it blocked rescue teams from accessing the area.
Press freedom organizations have strongly criticized the incident. The Committee to Protect Journalists described the attack as a “grave breach” of international law, citing repeated strikes on the same location and obstruction of medical assistance. Reporters Without Borders also raised concerns, noting that attempts were made to coordinate safe access for ambulances prior to the strike.
Khalil’s death adds to a growing toll of media workers killed in the conflict. Lebanese officials report that at least seven journalists have died in Israeli attacks since the latest escalation began. Previous incidents include the deaths of journalists affiliated with Hezbollah-linked outlets, which Israel has claimed were connected to militant activities.
The broader conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has continued despite intermittent ceasefire efforts. Both sides have accused each other of violations, with cross-border attacks persisting. Diplomatic efforts led by the United States aim to stabilize the situation, including recent talks involving regional envoys to extend a temporary ceasefire and move toward a longer-term agreement.
According to Lebanese authorities, more than 2,400 people have been killed and over 7,500 injured in Israeli strikes since the escalation began, though the figures do not distinguish between civilians and combatants. Israeli officials, meanwhile, say Hezbollah attacks have resulted in civilian and military casualties within Israel.
The killing of Amal Khalil has renewed international concern over the protection of journalists in war zones, with calls for independent investigations and accountability growing louder as the conflict deepens.
