Two years after the attack on journalists in southern Lebanon: AFP deplores response from the Israeli army

AFP conducted an independent investigation confirming that two Israeli 120mm tank shells were fired from the Jordeikh area in Israel. These findings have been corroborated by other international investigations, including those by Reuters, the Committee to Protect Journalists, Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and Reporters Without Borders.

Despite significant and clear ballistic, satellite and human evidence, the Israeli authorities have never made any substantial statement about the attack or given any explanation. 

A few days ago, AFP received another short reply from the Israeli army: “The incident is currently under review, and the findings regarding the event have not yet been concluded.” 

Two years after this double shelling, Christina Assi continues to suffer permanent injuries, including the amputation of one leg and severe damage to the other.

In July 2025, U.S. lawmakers — Senator Peter Welch, Senator Bernie Sanders, and Representative Becca Balint — publicly called for transparency and accountability, denouncing what they described as a “targeted attack on international journalists.”

AFP reiterates that the journalists were clearly identifiable as civilians, wearing helmets and vests marked “PRESS,” with no military presence visible on site. Impunity in this case, described by the UN Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions as a “premeditated, targeted and double-tap attack,” constitutes a serious violation of international humanitarian law and a threat to press freedom.

AFP demands the Israeli army open a full and transparent investigation into this very serious incident. This is essential to protect journalists and to safeguard freedom of information.