Record 129 journalists killed in 2025, mostly by Israel, says CPJ

New York, February 26, 2026 — A record 129 journalists and media workers were killed worldwide in 2025 while performing their duties, according to a new report by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). The organisation said this marks the deadliest year for journalists since it began collecting data more than 30 years ago.

The CPJ reported that 86 of those killed died as a result of Israeli fire, most of them Palestinians in Gaza. The group said this is the second consecutive year in which Israel accounted for roughly two-thirds of global journalist deaths.

Allegations of Targeted Killings

The CPJ stated that Israel was responsible for 81 percent of the 47 cases it classified as intentional killings, or “murder.” The organisation added that the real number may be higher due to limited access for independent verification inside Gaza.

In its report, CPJ said the Israeli military has now carried out more targeted killings of journalists than any other military it has documented. It described accusations against slain reporters as “deadly smears” when Israeli authorities alleged links between journalists and militant groups without publicly presenting verifiable evidence.

The Israeli military has rejected the report’s findings. In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it does not intentionally target journalists and operates under complex combat conditions. It said the report was based on unverified claims and did not reflect operational realities.

Gaza and Yemen Among Deadliest Locations

According to CPJ, 31 journalists were killed in a strike on a Houthi media centre in Yemen. The organisation called it the second deadliest single incident involving journalists in its records.

Israel acknowledged carrying out that strike and described the facility as part of Houthi propaganda operations.

Conflict Driving Press Deaths

The CPJ report found that at least 104 of the 129 journalist deaths were linked to armed conflict. Besides Gaza and Yemen, Sudan recorded nine journalist deaths and Mexico six.

Among those killed in Gaza was Hussam al-Masri, who was working for Reuters at the time of his death. He was killed while operating a live video feed at Nasser Hospital. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as a “tragic mishap.” A Reuters investigation later said the equipment targeted belonged to the news agency.

The CPJ said the sharp rise in journalist deaths reflects what it called a dangerous environment for media workers, especially in Gaza, where foreign journalists are not allowed to enter independently.

The organisation urged governments to ensure accountability and stronger protections for journalists working in conflict zones.