Lebanon alleges deliberate targeting of media workers as Israel denies accusations and reviews the incident
April 23, 2026: Nawaf Salam has accused Israel of committing war crimes following the death of journalist Amal Khalil in an airstrike in southern Lebanon. Khalil, a correspondent for Al-Akhbar, was reporting in al-Tiri village when a strike hit near her location. According to Lebanon’s Health Ministry, she and photographer Zeinab Faraj took shelter in a house that was later struck, leading to Khalil’s death and serious injuries to Faraj.
Salam said the repeated targeting of journalists and obstruction of rescue efforts constituted war crimes, adding that Lebanon would pursue the matter through international forums. Groups like the Committee to Protect Journalists and Reporters Without Borders also condemned the incident, calling for accountability and safe access for rescue teams. Israel, however, denied targeting journalists or blocking rescue operations, stating that the incident is under review and that military action was taken against perceived threats.
The incident comes amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, despite a temporary ceasefire in place since April 16. Both sides have continued to exchange fire, and fresh ceasefire talks are scheduled in Washington. Khalil’s death marks the ninth journalist casualty in Lebanon this year, underscoring growing concerns over press safety in conflict zones.