Statement regarding the killing of Shireen Abu Akleh

From: Wahat al-Salam/Neve Shalom (the members of the community’s municipal and educational boards)

We are deeply distressed by the shooting and killing of Shireen Abu Akleh, senior reporter for Al Jazeera, in the Jenin refugee camp.

We, the above, join the widespread public demand for an international, independent inquest into the death of Shireen. It will not be enough to know which gun fired the bullet; we demand that those responsible be brought to justice.

Regardless of the outcome of such an investigation, it is clear to us that military activity on the part of the Israeli army in the heart of a civilian population leads to the bloodshed of innocent civilians. The occupation is directly responsible for the loss of life in the Palestinian territories.

The death of any individual by the military is shocking and an egregious breach of human rights. But when a reporter is killed, the effects go beyond the loss of precious life. It is an attack on freedom of expression, of a reporter to report, of the public to obtain information. It undermines the ability of those who come after her to report objectively and clearly on the lives of the millions of Palestinians who still live under the daily rule of occupation. The murder of Shireen Abu Akleh serves as a deterrent to other journalists who would report, first-hand, from the scenes that most need to be brought to light. It will keep other reporters from venturing to interview witnesses in the field, to report on the current reality in-depth and with open eyes. We mourn this loss, as well, since this impassionate information is one of the best tools we have in the non-violent struggle against the cruel violence of the occupation.

We call for better ways to ensure the health and safety of journalists in the field, especially in battle conditions. It is not uncommon for journalists – especially those reporting from the Palestinian side – to be harmed in the line of duty. The Journalist Support Committee (JSC), which is active in the Arab world, has recorded 301 infringements on media freedom in the occupied territories since the start of 2022, alone. This must stop.

As a feminist, Shireen was a role model – one who reported with sensitivity and courage. She played a role in many extremely difficult junctions though 25 years in the history of the conflict. Shireen inspired young women and she encouraged many to follow her into this sacred profession.

We extend our condolences to the family and share in their sorrow, as well as the sorrow of the family of journalists whose task it is to expose the reality of oppression and war. It is exactly those conditions we in Wahat al Salam/Neve Shalom seek to change, and we will continue to rely on those few brave souls who manage to report honestly and compassionately in order to educate and work toward a future of peace, justice, equality and democracy.