Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has sounded the alarm over the fate of Palestinian journalists detained by Israel, urging their immediate and unconditional release. The call comes in the wake of a recent ceasefire agreement that saw only three Palestinian journalists freed, while sixteen others remain behind bars. The situation has cast a harsh spotlight on the treatment of media professionals in the context of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, raising pressing questions about press freedom, human rights, and the responsibilities of governments during times of war.
According to RSF, the three journalists who were released—Alaa al-Sarraj, Emad Zakaria Badr al-Ifranj, and Shady Abu Sedo—were among 1,968 Palestinian prisoners freed by Israel on October 13, 2025. This mass release marked the first stage of a hostage and prisoner exchange deal with Hamas, which was brokered as part of broader efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region. While the release brought hope to the families of those freed, the continued detention of sixteen other journalists has prompted widespread concern among press freedom advocates and human rights organizations.
RSF has been unequivocal in its condemnation of the arrests. The organization, which monitors press freedom worldwide, described the detentions as arbitrary and called for the immediate and unconditional release of all remaining Palestinian journalists. "Both the journalists who were released and those still detained should never have been illegally abducted by Israeli forces," stated Martin Roux, Head of the RSF Crisis Desk, as quoted by RSF. His words reflect the organization’s broader stance that journalists must be protected under international law, especially in conflict zones where their reporting is vital to global understanding.
The three journalists who were freed had been detained over the past two years in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, regions that have seen repeated cycles of violence and military operations. Their release as part of the prisoner exchange was welcomed by their families and colleagues, but RSF emphasized that the move was not enough. The organization confirmed that sixteen other journalists, arrested in similar circumstances, remain in Israeli custody. RSF insists that the continued detention of these media professionals is a violation of their rights and undermines the essential role of the press in society.
The issue of arbitrary detention of journalists is not new to the region, but the current situation has drawn renewed scrutiny due to the scale and duration of the detentions. RSF’s call for action is part of a longstanding campaign to protect journalists worldwide, particularly in areas of conflict where the risks are greatest. The organization has documented numerous cases of journalists facing harassment, arrest, and violence while covering the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and has repeatedly called on all parties to respect the rights of media workers.
Martin Roux did not mince words in his criticism of Israeli authorities. In addition to condemning the arrests themselves, he highlighted what he described as "the inhuman and degrading treatment" of the detained journalists by Israeli prison authorities. Roux warned that, if proven, such treatment could amount to torture under international law. His statement underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the potential legal ramifications for those responsible. "The inhuman and degrading treatment of these news professionals by Israeli prison authorities could amount to torture if proven," Roux asserted, according to RSF.
These allegations have intensified calls for independent investigations into the conditions faced by Palestinian detainees, especially journalists. Human rights groups have long documented concerns about the treatment of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody, citing reports of poor living conditions, lack of access to legal representation, and inadequate medical care. The specific targeting of journalists adds another layer of complexity, as it raises concerns about efforts to suppress independent reporting and limit the flow of information from conflict zones.
Israel has not publicly responded to the latest statements from RSF, but officials have previously defended the country’s security policies, arguing that arrests are made on the basis of security concerns and allegations of involvement in unlawful activities. However, press freedom advocates argue that such justifications are often used to silence dissent and restrict the work of journalists who document the realities of life under occupation and conflict. The ongoing detentions have fueled debate about the balance between national security and fundamental rights, with many observers calling for greater transparency and due process.
The recent prisoner release, conducted as part of a broader agreement with Hamas, was seen as a potential turning point in the ongoing conflict. The deal, which involved the exchange of hostages and prisoners, was intended to build trust between the parties and lay the groundwork for further negotiations. For the families of the released journalists, the agreement brought relief and hope for the future. Yet, for those whose loved ones remain detained, the struggle continues.
The international community has taken note of RSF’s call to action. Several governments and international organizations have echoed the demand for the release of detained journalists and have urged Israel to uphold its obligations under international law. The United Nations and the European Union, among others, have stressed the importance of protecting journalists and ensuring their safety in conflict zones. These appeals reflect a growing recognition that a free and independent press is essential to accountability and the protection of human rights.
At the same time, the issue remains deeply contentious within Israel and among its supporters. Some argue that the country faces unique security challenges and must take measures to prevent attacks and maintain order. Others contend that the detention of journalists undermines Israel’s democratic values and damages its international reputation. The debate has played out in the media and in political circles, with advocates on both sides presenting their cases with passion and conviction.
As the situation develops, the fate of the sixteen detained Palestinian journalists remains uncertain. RSF and other press freedom organizations continue to push for their release, warning that the continued detention sets a dangerous precedent and threatens the ability of journalists to work without fear of reprisal. For now, the spotlight remains on Israel’s actions and the broader question of how to protect journalists in times of conflict—a challenge that resonates far beyond the borders of the Middle East.
With three journalists finally reunited with their families, the struggle for press freedom in the region is far from over. The world watches closely, awaiting answers and accountability, while those who remain detained hope for a future where their voices—and their reporting—can once again be heard.
