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The Faces Behind the Headlines

The ongoing war in Gaza has turned into one of the deadliest conflicts for media workers in modern history. Journalists, who risk everything to document the truth, have been repeatedly targeted, and many have paid with their lives. Here are the names and stories of some of those recently killed:

Anas al-Sharif (28) – A respected Al Jazeera correspondent, killed in August 2025 when an Israeli strike hit a journalist tent near al-Shifa Hospital. In his final social media post minutes before his death, he wrote: “If these words of mine reach you, know that Israel has succeeded in killing me and silencing my voice.”
Mohammed Qreiqeh (33), Ibrahim Zaher (25), Mohammed Noufal (29), Moamen Aliwa (23) – Four Al Jazeera staff members killed in the same strike alongside al-Sharif while documenting the aftermath of bombardments.
Hussam al-Masri (49) – A veteran Reuters cameraman killed in a double-tap strike on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in late August 2025. A refugee himself, Hussam worked tirelessly to bring live coverage of Gaza to the world while caring for a displaced family and a critically ill wife.
Mohammad Salama (24) – An Al Jazeera photojournalist, remembered for his dedication and optimism despite dire circumstances, killed in the Nasser Hospital strike alongside al-Masri.
Mariam Abu Daqqa (~33) – A freelance journalist working with AP, killed in the same attack. Known for her courage, she reported from some of the most dangerous areas until her life was cut short.
Ahmed Abu Aziz (29) – A contributor for Middle East Eye and other outlets, Ahmed was known for walking long distances across Gaza to ensure stories were documented. He too was killed in the Nasser Hospital strike.
Hossam Shabat (23) – An Al Jazeera Mubasher reporter killed in March 2025 in Beit Lahia by an Israeli airstrike. He was accused of militant ties, but media groups have dismissed such claims and considered his death a deliberate targeting.
Yahya Sobeih (early 30s) – A freelance journalist and editor, killed in May 2025 in Gaza City’s Al-Rimal neighborhood, just hours after celebrating the birth of his daughter. His death highlighted the deeply personal tragedies unfolding in Gaza.
Ismail al-Ghoul and Rami al-Rifi – An Al Jazeera correspondent and cameraman killed together in July 2024 while covering strikes in Shati refugee camp. Their deaths sparked international outrage and demands for accountability.
Adel Zorob – A freelance journalist killed in December 2024 when his home in Rafah was bombed, killing over 20 family members. He had been reporting until his last days, using his social platforms to give voice to Gaza’s suffering.

Humanizing the Toll

Each of these journalists carried a camera, a pen, or a microphone—not a weapon. Their mission was to show the world what was happening in Gaza, often at great personal risk. From fathers like Hussam al-Masri and Yahya Sobeih, to young reporters like Hossam Shabat, their lives embodied dedication and sacrifice.

A Broader Crisis

Since October 2023, more than 180 Palestinian journalists have been confirmed killed in Gaza. This marks the deadliest period for the press in decades. International organizations, human rights groups, and press freedom advocates continue to demand independent investigations and accountability, warning that without justice, the killing of journalists will remain unchecked.

Why This Matters Globally

The targeting of journalists threatens not only press freedom in Gaza but also the global right to information. By silencing local reporters, the world is left blind to the realities on the ground. Each name represents a silenced voice, but together they symbolize the enduring struggle to keep truth alive.