Three journalists were killed on Saturday after an Israeli airstrike hit southern Lebanon, prompting strong condemnation from Lebanese authorities and raising concerns over the safety of media workers in conflict zones.
Among the victims was veteran war correspondent Ali Shoeib of Al Manar TV. Also killed were Fatima Ftouni and her brother, a cameraman. Their deaths were confirmed by both Al Manar and Al Mayadeen.
The Israel Defense Forces acknowledged carrying out the strike, claiming Shoeib was targeted for allegedly operating within Hezbollah under the cover of journalism and for exposing Israeli troop positions in southern Lebanon.
The incident comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Lebanon following rocket fire earlier this month. Lebanese officials say at least 1,189 people have been killed since the fighting intensified.
Lebanese leaders strongly condemned the attack. President Joseph Aoun described it as a “blatant crime,” while Prime Minister Nawaf Salam called it a violation of international humanitarian law. Information Minister Paul Morcos added that the killings could amount to war crimes.
The strike has further heightened tensions in the region and renewed calls for greater protection of journalists covering armed conflicts.
