A NINE-YEAR-OLD girl is receiving praise online for honouring the work of journalists in Gaza.
According to the independent, non-profit organisation Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) at least 68 journalists have died in Gaza since fighting commenced in the wake of Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7.
Indeed, the CPJ – which is investigating all reports of journalists or media workers being killed, injured or going missing in the war – said it is the deadliest period they have witnessed for journalists since they began gathering data in 1992.
News agencies Reuters and Agence France Press previously sought assurances from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) that their journalists would not be targeted by air strikes while working in the Gaza Strip.
A new generation inspired by the courage of Palestine's journalists. Glasgow, Scotland today. pic.twitter.com/ZZwhlh6O9Z
— Hassan Ghani (@hassan_ghani) December 23, 2023
However, the IDF said it could not guarantee their safety.
“CPJ emphasizes that journalists are civilians doing important work during times of crisis and must not be targeted by warring parties,” said Sherif Mansour, CPJ’s Middle East and North Africa program coordinator.
“Journalists across the region are making great sacrifices to cover this heart-breaking conflict.
“Those in Gaza, in particular, have paid, and continue to pay, an unprecedented toll and face exponential threats.
“Many have lost colleagues, families, and media facilities, and have fled seeking safety when there is no safe haven or exit.”
In a gesture honouring the work of journalists in Gaza, nine-year-old Haleema took to the streets of Glasgow wearing improvised press body armour while holding a microphone.
After freelance journalist Hassan Ghani shared the picture on X/Twitter it quickly garnered praise.
It and has been re-tweeted more than 4000 people, attracted more than 18,000 likes and viewed a staggering 1.8 million times.
“A new generation inspired by the courage of Palestine's journalists,” said Ghani.
Others weighed in to offer their thoughts about Haleema’s tribute.
“The hope for the future that this picture exudes is so powerful,” said one.
While another added: “You have chosen the right role models, little one”.
