Al Jazeera urges immediate medical evacuation for its injured journalists in Gaza
Al Jazeera Media Network is appalled by the Israeli occupation authorities' refusal of the critical medical evacuation requests for its camera operators, Fadi Al Wahidi and Ali Al-Attar. Both journalists have been gravely injured and their conditions continue to decline following an attack by Israeli occupation forces nearly two weeks ago.
On 9th October 2024, in the Jabalya camp, Al Wahidi sustained a gunshot wound that resulted in paralysis, along with significant respiratory and neurological issues. Two days prior, Al-Attar suffered severe injuries due to shrapnel from an Israeli airstrike in Deir al-Balah, which led to a cerebral haemorrhage, causing ongoing convulsions and severe damage to his nervous system.
The dire situation in Gaza, compounded by relentless bombardment and the collapse of medical facilities, has exacerbated their conditions, making it impossible to receive the necessary medical care locally. The medical teams on the ground have urgently requested the transfer of both journalists out of the Gaza Strip to prevent their conditions from becoming fatal.
Despite being fully aware of Al Wahidi and Al-Attar's critical conditions, the continued refusal by Israeli occupation authorities thus far refused permission for their transfer. This refusal poses a direct threat to their lives and could constitute an act of wilful murder should they succumb to their injuries.
In face of constant threats received by Al Jazeera journalists in Gaza, the Network holds Israeli authorities accountable for their safety and security.
Al Jazeera Media Network appeals to international organisations and all parties concerned with journalists' safety to urgently intervene and pressure the Israeli occupation authorities to permit the immediate evacuation of Fadi Al Wahidi and Ali Al-Attar from Gaza. The Network also urges respected organisations to emphasise the right of the journalists to medical care and urgent treatment under international law.
