SANEF condemns Israeli raid on Al Jazeera bureau, urges protection of journalists

In a stunning display of blatant disregard for media freedom, Israeli soldiers recently stormed Al Jazeera’s bureau in Ramallah, located in the occupied West Bank.
The subsequent forced closure of the bureau for 45 days has sparked outrage from the South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF), who have called for the protection of journalists in conflict zones.
SANEF has slammed the Israeli government’s actions as a direct attack on democratic principles and media freedom.
In a statement on Tuesday, said the decision to shut down Al Jazeera, which was based on alleged bias against Israel, is seen as part of a wider effort to intimidate and silence the Qatari broadcaster.

“This aggressive action is part of a disturbing pattern of escalating violence against journalists in conflict zones,” said a spokesperson for SANEF.

The Committee to Protect Journalists has reported that 116 journalists have been killed in conflict areas, highlighting the urgent need for greater protections for media workers.

The United Nations and UNESCO have both emphasised the importance of journalists’ safety in upholding freedom of expression and access to information.
Journalists play a crucial role in holding power to account and informing the public, even in the most dangerous environments.

SANEF has called on governments worldwide to uphold international law and human rights standards by protecting journalists’ safety.
The organisation stands in solidarity with Al Jazeera and all journalists working in conflict zones, advocating for their right to report without fear or repression.

An attack on media freedom anywhere is an attack on democracy everywhere, and SANEF is committed to defending the rights of journalists to report freely and without intimidation.
As a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting media freedom and excellence in journalism, SANEF will continue to fight for the rights of journalists around the world.