International Lawyers Demand ICC Probe into Killing of Journalist Saleh Al-Jafarawi
Human rights experts condemn killing as a direct assault on press freedom and demand international accountability
Palestine, PUREWILAYAH.COM - Human rights lawyers are urging the United Nations and the International Criminal Court (ICC) to open a formal investigation into the killing of prominent Palestinian journalist Saleh al-Jafarawi, describing his death as a deliberate attack on press freedom amid the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
Sara Segneri, a London-based international criminal and human rights lawyer, confirmed on Tuesday that official complaints have been submitted to UN investigative bodies, Special Rapporteurs, and the ICC.
She and her colleagues argue that Al-Jafarawi’s murder constitutes a grave violation of international humanitarian law and demands prosecution at the highest level.
A Voice for Gaza Silenced
For nearly two years, Saleh Al-Jafarawi was one of the most notable Palestinian voices documenting the war on Gaza. Through his reporting and social media presence, he exposed war crimes, mass destruction, and the human suffering endured by Palestinians under Israeli aggression.
Following the announcement of the recent ceasefire, Al-Jafarawi shared a heartfelt message from northern Gaza, thanking global protesters, artists, athletes, and activists who amplified Gaza’s voice. It would be one of his final public statements.
Targeted Killing, Not a Tragedy
According to Palestinian officials, Al-Jafarawi was allegedly targeted by a Tel Aviv-backed clan affiliated with the Daghmash family—groups accused of collaborating with Israeli forces in Gaza.
These elements, reportedly linked to armed gangs, have long been suspected of destabilizing the Strip and undermining resistance factions.
Segneri stressed that this was “not a random tragedy,” but a calculated act to silence a journalist dedicated to unveiling the truth. She revealed that Al-Jafarawi had previously reported threats, kidnapping attempts, and torture, along with sustained censorship efforts on social media platforms.
“Failing to hold the perpetrators accountable would send a chilling message that journalists can be hunted and killed with impunity,” Segneri warned. “It would imply that international law is meaningless in the face of raw violence.”
Press Freedom Under Attack
Human rights advocates assert that Al-Jafarawi’s assassination represents a broader assault on press freedom in Gaza.
Several observers claim that, even during the ceasefire’s initial phase, armed gangs—allegedly supported by Israel and tolerated by Western powers—were mobilized to perpetuate chaos and dismantle independent reporting from the ground.
Among these groups, factions reportedly linked to ISIS-affiliated leader Yasser Abu Shabab have been implicated in looting humanitarian aid and attacking Palestinian civilians awaiting relief supplies.
Demand for Accountability
International legal experts argue that Al-Jafarawi’s killing must be investigated under the framework of crimes against journalists and potential war crimes.
They emphasize that the case is emblematic of a dangerous precedent in Gaza—where truth-tellers, documentarians, and humanitarian voices are systematically targeted.
If left unaddressed, they warn, it will embolden further violence against journalists worldwide and erode the foundations of international justice.
A Legacy of Truth
Beyond his reporting, Saleh Al-Jafarawi became a symbol of Palestinian resilience. His unwavering commitment to documenting the suffering and steadfastness of his people made him a trusted voice across the Arab world and beyond.
His final message to the world echoed a profound belief:
“You will need a million years to break the will of the Palestinian people — and you will not break it.” (PW)