Arab League urges greater protection for Palestinian journalists

The Arab League called for stronger protection for Palestinian journalists and media institutions, citing continued violations, restrictions and attacks affecting media workers in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Ahmed Rashid Khattabi, Assistant Secretary-General and head of the Arab League’s Media and Communication Sector, stressed the importance of the International Day of Solidarity with Palestinian Media and urged international and human rights organizations to take effective measures to ensure journalists’ safety and uphold press freedom in line with international law.

In a statement, Khattabi pointed to ongoing challenges facing Palestinian media, including restrictions on journalists’ work and damage to media infrastructure.

He also highlighted Arab League initiatives aimed at supporting Palestinian media through professional development programs and efforts to establish a dedicated media support fund.

The International Day of Solidarity with Palestinian Media is observed annually on May 11 following a decision adopted by the Council of Arab Information Ministers in 2022.

The occasion commemorates Palestinian journalists who have been killed, wounded or detained while covering events in the occupied Palestinian territories and draws attention to violations against media workers.

The date also marks the killing of Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh on May 11, 2022.

M.F / ABD