Jerusalem: The Israeli government announced it will not permit foreign journalists to enter the Gaza Strip, even with the anticipated reopening of the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza. This announcement was made during a court hearing on a petition submitted by the Foreign Press Association in Israel (FPA), which is advocating for journalists’ access to the area. The court has deferred its decision on the matter to a future date.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency – WAFA, the Israeli government’s representative informed the Supreme Court that the restriction on foreign journalists is due to security concerns. The court’s discussion focused on the FPA’s petition, originally filed 16 months ago, which requests permission for journalists to enter Gaza. Despite the urgency and repeated submissions, the court has consistently postponed its ruling, leaving the matter unresolved.
Attorney Gilad Sher, representing the FPA, highlighted the prolonged and unchanged stance of the Israeli government. The petition, supported by numerous journalists, underscores the significant global interest and the potential reach of media coverage from Gaza. Sher noted that the petitioners collectively represent approximately 400 journalists from over 130 media outlets, broadcasting in about 10 languages to audiences that span millions globally. The ongoing restrictions continue to limit media access and coverage of the developments within the Gaza Strip.