Director-General deplores attacks on media and schools in Gaza and southern Israel
The Director-General of UNESCO, Irina Bokova, is alarmed by the escalation of violence in Israel and Gaza. Today she condemned the killing of three Palestinian journalists—Mahmoud Al-Komi, Hossam Salameh Mohammed and Abu Eisha— in air strikes on 20 November. She also voiced alarm over reports that media were being targeted in the air strikes and rocket fire between southern Israel and Gaza, and that schools were being hit.
“I am deeply concerned about the reported targeting of media facilities and personnel that have left three Palestinian journalists dead: Mahmoud Al-Komi, Hossam Salameh Mohammed and Abu Eisha. The civilian status of journalists and their right to carry out their professional duties should be respected.
“I am equally alarmed by strikes on schools in both Gaza and southern Israel. Schools should offer a safe environment for children. Attacks against them is a denial of the right to education and should be firmly condemned.
“I wish to join my voice to the UN Secretary-General, whose paramount concern is for the safety and well-being of all civilians,” the Director-General concluded.
Download Document Files: https://unispal.un.org/pdfs/UNESCO_Attacksf.pdf
Document Type: Arabic text, French text, Press Release, Statement
Document Sources: United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
Subject: Armed conflict, Casualties, Education and culture, Gaza Strip, Protection, Security issues
Publication Date: 21/11/2012