By: The Trek News Desk
Israel has once again emerged as the most dangerous country for journalists, holding the grim distinction for the third year in a row, according to the latest annual report released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The watchdog confirms that Israel accounted for the highest number of journalist deaths in 2025, with Gaza remaining the epicentre of fatal attacks on media workers.
RSF reports that a total of 67 journalists were killed worldwide this year. Of these, 29 Palestinian journalists lost their lives in Gaza, allegedly due to Israeli military actions. Since the Gaza conflict erupted in October 2023, nearly 220 journalists have been killed, making Israel the deadliest region for media professionals during this period.
Israel is Responsible for 43% of Global Journalist Fatalities
According to RSF, Israel’s share in global journalist deaths stands at 43 per cent, a figure that the organisation says makes the country “the biggest enemy of journalists.” The report highlights a particularly devastating incident, an Israeli “double-tap” airstrike on a Gaza hospital on August 25, which killed five journalists, including contributors to Reuters and the Associated Press.
Despite repeated appeals from media rights groups, international journalists still do not have free access to Gaza. Entry is only permitted through tightly controlled tours supervised by Israeli forces, raising concerns about transparency and independent reporting.
A Deadly Year Beyond Gaza: Mexico, Ukraine, and Sudan Also High-Risk
The RSF report also sheds light on the deteriorating situation in other parts of the world. Mexico recorded its deadliest year since 2022, with nine journalists murdered, despite assurances from President Claudia Sheinbaum to improve journalist safety.
Conflict-ridden regions such as Ukraine and Sudan remained perilous as well, with three and four journalist deaths, respectively.
Global Decline in Deaths, But Threats Persist
While the 2025 death toll is significantly lower than the peak of 142 journalist killings in 2012, attributed largely to the Syrian civil war, the risks facing journalists remain acute. The long-term average of around 80 journalist deaths per year underscores the ongoing danger associated with reporting in conflict zones and repressive environments.
503 Journalists Imprisoned Worldwide
Beyond killings, the RSF report highlights the alarming number of journalists held behind bars. As of December 1, 2025, 503 journalists were imprisoned across 47 countries. China leads the list with 121 jailed journalists, followed by Russia (48) and Myanmar (47), countries known for harsh crackdowns on independent reporting.
Press Freedom Under Growing Pressure
RSF’s findings paint a troubling picture for global press freedom. Journalists are increasingly targeted, whether by physical attacks, restrictive laws, or imprisonment, making their work more hazardous than ever. The organisation emphasises that ensuring journalist safety and protecting independent reporting must become urgent priorities for the international community.
Source: News Agencies
