Premium

Iran FM Abbas Araghchi calls killing of journalists in Lebanon a ‘wake-up call’; protests erupt in Beirut

The victims included Ali Shoeib of Al Manar TV and Al Mayadeen journalists Fatima Ftouni and her brother Mohammed.

journalistThe destroyed car of Lebanese journalists Al Mayadeen reporter Fatima Ftouni and cameraman Mohammed Ftouni, and Al Manar reporter Ali Shaib, killed by a targeted Israeli strike in Lebanon. (Photo Credit: Reuters/Press TV Iran)

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has called the killing of three journalists in Lebanon in Israeli airstrikes a “serious wake-up call” for the global community, the BBC reported citing a social media post. Araghchi called the killings “targeted assassination” and “flagrant violation of international law”.

The victims — Ali Shoeib of Al Manar TV and Al Mayadeen journalists Fatima Ftouni and her brother Mohammed —  were killed in an Israeli airstrike in the southern town of Jezzine . They were reporting from the ground when their vehicle was hit in the strike.

‘Blatant crime’, violates international law: Lebanon

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the attack as a “blatant crime” and said it violated international law, which guarantees protection for journalists during conflict. Israel has confirmed it carried out the strike that killed Shoeib, but claimed he was a Hezbollah operative posing as a journalist.

This is the second time Israel has been accused of targeting journalists in Lebanon since the conflict began. Last week, another Al Manar presenter Mohammad Sherri and his wife were killed in a separate strike, according to the BBC.

Funerals for the three were held near Beirut, drawing large crowds, news agency AP reported. Protests also broke out in the capital following the killings, with anger growing over the incident.

journalist The destroyed gear  of the vehicle. This is the second time Israel has been accused of targeting journalists in Lebanon since the conflict began. (Photo Credit: Reuters)

Medics enroute to rescue also attacked: Lebanese health ministry

Lebanese authorities said a second strike hit rescue workers who had rushed to the scene, resulting in additional casualties. The health ministry alleged that medics were directly targeted while en route to site of the earlier attack, said news agency Reuters, adding that more than 50 medical workers have been killed so far. This includes nine in the past day, amid what it described as an escalating pattern of strikes on healthcare personnel and facilities.

More than 1,100 civilians have reportedly been killed in Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon so far, according to a report by the BBC. Concerns are increasing over the safety of journalists and civilians, although Israel has denied deliberately targeting them.

The Express Global Desk at The Indian Express delivers authoritative, verified, and context-driven coverage of key international developments shaping global politics, policy, and migration trends. The desk focuses on stories with direct relevance for Indian and global audiences, combining breaking news with in-depth explainers and analysis. A major focus area of the desk is US immigration and visa policy, including developments related to student visas, work permits, permanent residency pathways, executive actions, and court rulings. The Global Desk also closely tracks Canada’s immigration, visa, and study policies, covering changes to study permits, post-study work options, permanent residence programmes, and regulatory updates affecting migrants and international students. All reporting from the Global Desk adheres to The Indian Express’ editorial standards, relying on official data, government notifications, court documents, and on-record sources. The desk prioritises clarity, accuracy, and accountability, ensuring readers can navigate complex global systems with confidence. Core Team The Express Global Desk is led by a team of experienced journalists and editors with deep expertise in international affairs and migration policy: Aniruddha Dhar – Senior Assistant Editor with extensive experience in global affairs, international politics, and editorial leadership. Nischai Vats – Deputy Copy Editor specialising in US politics, US visa and immigration policy, and policy-driven international coverage. Mashkoora Khan – Sub-editor focusing on global developments, with a strong emphasis on Canada visa, immigration, and study-related policy coverage. ... Read More

Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram

Advertisement
Loading Recommendations...
Latest Comment
Post Comment
Read Comments