Galloni demands Israel explain killings of Reuters video journalists in Lebanon and Gaza

In a statement issued on October 13, third anniversary of the killing of cameraman Issam Abdallah by Israeli tank fire in southern Lebanon, Galloni said:

“We condemn his killing and reiterate our demands for transparency and accountability from the Israeli government.

“Despite repeated requests for an explanation of how this strike on clearly identifiable journalists happened, the only update we have received from the IDF is that the incident is still under review.”

She said Issam was a talented journalist who was deeply missed by everyone at Reuters. Six other journalists including two others from Reuters and one from AFP were injured in the tank fire.

Galloni said Reuters also had unanswered questions about the death of Palestinian cameraman Hussam al-Masri in Israeli strikes on Nasser Hospital in Gaza on August 25, 2025.

“Journalists perform a vital public service in relaying events to the world, often at great risk to their personal safety, and it is essential that governments take all necessary actions to protect them as they go about their jobs. This includes swiftly and openly explaining the circumstances when journalists lose their lives during conflicts,” the statement said.

“We will continue to seek answers, as we do with each Reuters journalist killed in the line of duty. And once again, we call upon the Israeli government to provide a clear explanation of what happened, and to hold to account those responsible.” Galloni added. ■