The Palestinian Journalists’ Syndicate (PJS) confirms with profound sadness the killing of prominent Palestinian journalist and video reporter, Saleh Aljafarawi, 28, in Gaza City on Sunday, October 12, 2025. His death occurred during clashes, just days after a humanitarian ceasefire agreement was initiated in the Gaza Strip.
Aljafarawi, who gained significant prominence for his powerful video coverage throughout the conflict, was reportedly shot and killed by members of an “armed militia” while reporting on clashes in the Sabra neighbourhood of Gaza City. Footage verified by Al Jazeera’s Sanad agency showed his body, tragically clad in a “press” flak jacket, confirming he was on duty at the time of his death.
Palestinian journalist Saleh Aljafarawi has been killed by members of an Israel-linked ‘militia’ fighting Hamas, just days after a Hamas-Israel ceasefire took hold. Here are key moments from his life covering the war on Gaza. pic.twitter.com/D27Zs7Xtgn
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) October 13, 2025
Conflicting Reports and Security Concerns
The circumstances surrounding the incident underscore the immense security challenges facing Gaza residents and journalists, even during a declared ceasefire. Palestinian sources indicated that the clashes involved Hamas security forces and fighters from the Doghmush clan. However, a senior source in Gaza’s Ministry of Interior claimed the fighting was against an “armed militia affiliated with the [Israeli] occupation”, which they accused of killing displaced people returning to Gaza City.
The PJS calls for an immediate and transparent investigation into the identity and affiliations of the armed group responsible for Mr. Aljafarawi’s killing and the ongoing violence.
Escalating Danger for Media Workers
Mr. Aljafarawi’s death elevates the confirmed number of media workers killed in Gaza since October 2023 to more than 270, solidifying this conflict as the deadliest in history for journalists.
In previous interviews, Mr. Aljafarawi shared the intense personal risk associated with his work, stating he had received numerous threats and “lived in fear for every second” due to his critical reporting. His experience highlights the deliberate targeting and intimidation tactics employed against media professionals attempting to document the humanitarian crisis.
You May Like To Read: Gaza Deal Sparks Hope and Uncertainty Amid Trump’s “New Middle East” Plan
Call to Action Amidst Diplomacy
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragile security situation, occurring even as the current ceasefire holds for a third day ahead of an anticipated hostage-prisoner exchange.
The PJS urges all parties involved and international stakeholders participating in the Gaza summit in Sharm el-Sheikh to:
- Guarantee Media Safety: Include explicit, binding guarantees for the protection and safe movement of journalists within any final document or peace declaration signed at the summit.
- Ensure Accountability: Prioritize an independent, thorough investigation into Mr. Aljafarawi’s killing and ensure that those responsible for attacks on journalists are held accountable.
- Uphold the Ceasefire: Redouble efforts to enforce the cessation of hostilities across the entire Gaza Strip to prevent further civilian and media casualties.
The crucial work of journalists like Saleh Aljafarawi provides the world with essential information. Their safety must be non-negotiable.
You May Like To Read: President Trump Vows To Address Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions
