A Lebanese journalist was killed and another wounded following Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon, according to Lebanese officials and local media reports.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that 43-year-old Amal Khalil, a correspondent for the Al-Akhbar newspaper, was killed on Wednesday while covering developments near the town of al-Tairi. Zeinab Faraj, a freelance photographer accompanying her, sustained head injuries during the incident.
According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health and senior military officials, the journalists initially sought refuge in a nearby house after a vehicle in front of them was struck. However, that building was subsequently targeted. While rescue teams managed to evacuate Faraj, efforts to reach Khalil were reportedly delayed due to the deployment of stun grenades in the area.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the targeting of journalists and the obstruction of rescue operations, describing such actions as a violation of international law. In a statement shared on the X social media platform, officials emphasized that the protection of media personnel is a fundamental requirement under global humanitarian statutes.
The Israeli military denied claims of obstructing rescue teams. In a statement, the military noted that two vehicles emerging from a building allegedly linked to Hezbollah were targeted because they posed a perceived threat. This incident marks one of the deadliest days since the ceasefire began on April 16. The ongoing conflict in the region continues to pose significant risks to civilians and members of the press, as international observers call for increased adherence to the rules of engagement and the protection of non-combatants in conflict zones.
