4 journalists killed in Israeli strikes on Iran: IFJ

KABUL (Pajhwok): At least four journalists and media workers have been killed in Israeli attacks on Iran, says the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ).

IFJ voiced concern over the killing of these journalists in a statement that said that under international law, journalists were considered civilians and deliberate attacks on them were deemed “war crimes”.

The federation said four journalists have been killed since Israeli strikes began on Iran on June 13.

IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger said: “Media professionals in areas of armed conflict must be treated and protected as civilians and allowed to perform their work without interference.

“The IFJ urges warring parties to refrain from attacking journalists and media facilities and calls on media organisations and employers to do their utmost to ensure the safety of their employees, such as allowing them to work from home if newsrooms are located close to potential targets. No story is worth the life of a journalist.”

On Friday morning, Israel launched airstrikes on several Iranian installations and areas. Iran responded with counter-attacks, and both sides continued exchanging strikes since then.

The attacks have caused casualties and financial losses on both sides, but the exact figures remain unclear.

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