Killing of Lebanese Journalist Amal Khalil Sparks Call for International Accountability
Jan Keulen warns of a pattern of attacks on journalists in Lebanon and Gaza, urges urgent global action to ensure protection and justice
Amsterdam: Jan Keulen, former General Director of the Doha Centre for Media Freedom and former Programme Manager for the MENA region at Free Voice Netherlands, has expressed grave concern over the continued targeting of journalists in conflict zones, particularly in Lebanon and Gaza, and has called for immediate international action to hold Israel accountable.
He highlighted that the recent killing of Lebanese journalist Amal Khalil in southern Lebanon reflects a disturbing and consistent pattern of attacks on media professionals. Amal Khalil, aged 42, was killed on April 22 while covering the aftermath of an earlier Israeli strike in the village of Al-Tayri. According to available reports, an initial attack targeted a vehicle ahead of Khalil and freelance photographer Zeinab Faraj. Seeking safety, they took shelter in a nearby house, which was subsequently struck in a second attack. Rescue workers attempting to reach them came under fire. Faraj, who sustained serious injuries, was eventually rescued, while Khalil was later found dead beneath the rubble.
Jan Keulen noted that such incidents underscore a systematic disregard for the safety of journalists, who are internationally recognized as civilians and must be protected under humanitarian law. He emphasized that reports of prior threats against Amal Khalil further intensify concerns about deliberate targeting.
Referring to statements by Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, who termed the killing a war crime and pledged international legal action, Jan Keulen stressed the urgent need for credible investigations and accountability mechanisms at the global level. He warned that impunity in such cases not only endangers journalists but also undermines the fundamental principle of press freedom.
He further pointed out that earlier in April, three other journalists were killed in southern Lebanon, reinforcing concerns about an emerging pattern of violence against media workers in the region.
Jan Keulen urged the international community, media organizations, and human rights bodies to take immediate and concrete steps to ensure the protection of journalists and to hold those responsible accountable under international law.
