EANA supports AFP’s call for investigation into killing of freelancer in Gaza

The Board of the European Alliance of News Agencies (EANA) expresses its profound sadness following the killing of journalists in Gaza, including Abdul Raouf Shaat, a freelance photo and video journalist who regularly contributed to EANA member Agence France-Presse (AFP).

EANA stands in full support of AFP’s call for a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into this tragic event. We echo the urgent demand for clarity and accountability and call on all parties to uphold international law and protect journalists.

We would like to again underline and draw attention to all parties that freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democratic societies and that journalists perform an essential public service by reporting the facts, thus enabling informed public discourse and decision-making for citizens and politicians alike.

EANA reiterates its solidarity with AFP and with all journalists affected by violence in conflict zones. We reaffirm our commitment to press freedom and to defending the rights and safety of media professionals everywhere.