Amid Israel’s brutal ethnic cleansing campaign in Gaza, House Democrats are urging President Biden to lift the ban on foreign journalists and stop attacks on media personnel. The lawmakers highlighted the dangers faced by journalists documenting the genocide, with over 140 journalists and media workers killed in Gaza, accounting for more than 10% of the field’s workforce.
The Democrats, led by Rep. Jim McGovern, called for greater U.S. pressure on Israel to allow independent access to foreign journalists in Gaza. They emphasized the vital role of press freedom, challenging Israel’s restrictions that have turned Gaza into one of the most perilous places for journalists.
Despite ongoing threats and attacks, journalists in Gaza continue to report on the devastating impact of the conflict. Press freedom groups have condemned Israel’s targeting of journalists, with calls for unrestricted media access to the region growing louder. The Democrats’ efforts have garnered support from press and human rights organizations urging the administration to defend the truth in journalism.