By RNZ Online…
New Zealand has joined more than two dozen other countries to call for “immediate and independent” foreign media access to Gaza.
Earlier this month, an Israeli strike in the city killed six Al Jazeera staffers – two correspondents, three cameramen and another journalist.
The Israeli military admitted in a statement to targeting well-known reporter Anas al-Sharif, who it labelled a “terrorist” affiliated with Hamas.
A joint statement by the Media Freedom Coalition – signed by 27 countries, including New Zealand – urged Israel to offer protection for journalists in Gaza “in light of the unfolding humanitarian catastrophe”.
“Journalists and media workers play an essential role in putting the spotlight on the devastating reality of war. Access to conflict zones is vital to carrying out this role effectively. We oppose all attempts to restrict press freedom and block entry to journalists during conflicts,” the statement said.
Read the full story on RNZ HERE.
