Written By Lisa Murimi
Three journalists were killed in an Israeli airstrike on a media compound in Hasbaya, southeastern Lebanon, according to witnesses.
The strike targeted a guesthouse where journalists from at least seven media organizations were staying, with vehicles marked “press” visible in the compound’s courtyard.
The journalists killed included Ghassan Najjar and Mohamed Reda of Al Mayadeen TV, along with Wissam Qassem from Al-Manar TV.
Al Mayadeen and Al-Manar, both affiliated with pro-Iranian media, issued statements mourning their losses.
Lebanon’s Information Minister condemned the incident, calling it a “war crime” and accusing Israel of deliberately targeting journalists.
The Israeli military has yet to comment on the attack, though it has previously denied targeting journalists.
Footage from Al-Jadeed TV showed the aftermath: a bombed-out structure, overturned broadcast vehicles, and shattered debris.
Al-Jadeed reporters reported that they had coordinated with all official parties about the journalists’ presence in the area.
The conflict in southern Lebanon has escalated since October 8, 2023, with ongoing Israeli strikes and Hezbollah retaliations.
Lebanese authorities report over 1,700 airstrikes in recent weeks, with mounting civilian casualties amid the intensifying conflict.
