54 Journalists Killed in 2024, One-Third by Israeli Forces: Reporters Without Borders

PARIS – A total of 54 journalists were killed globally in 2024 while performing their duties or because of their profession, with a third of these deaths attributed to the Israeli army, according to an annual report by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) published on Thursday.

The report states that 18 journalists were killed by Israeli armed forces this year, including 16 in Gaza and two in Lebanon.

“Palestine remains the most dangerous country for journalists, recording the highest death toll of any country over the past five years,” RSF highlighted in its annual report, which covers data up to December 1, 2024.

Conflicting Death Toll Figures

In a separate report published on Tuesday, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) reported a higher toll of 104 journalist deaths worldwide in 2024, more than half of whom were killed in Gaza.

The discrepancy between IFJ and RSF figures stems from differing methodologies. While IFJ accounts for all journalist deaths, RSF includes only those deaths “proven to be directly related to professional activity”.

Israel’s Denial

Israel has rejected the findings, denying that it deliberately targets journalists. Israeli officials acknowledged that some journalists were killed during airstrikes aimed at military targets.

“We do not accept these figures and do not believe they are accurate,” said Israeli government spokesperson David Mercer during a press conference on Wednesday.

Deadliest Countries for Journalists

After Gaza, the most dangerous countries for journalists in 2024 were:

• Pakistan with 7 deaths
• Bangladesh and Mexico, each recording 5 deaths

In comparison, 45 journalists were killed globally in 2023 during the same period.

Imprisonments and Abductions

As of December 1, 2024, 550 journalists remain imprisoned worldwide, a rise from 513 last year, according to RSF.

• The highest numbers of detained journalists are in China (124, including 11 in Hong Kong), Myanmar (61), and Israel (41).

RSF also reported that 55 journalists are being held hostage globally, including two abducted in 2024. Nearly half of the hostages (25) are held by the Islamic State group.

Additionally, 95 journalists are reported missing worldwide, with four new cases recorded in 2024.