Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, has called for a thorough investigation into the killing of television reporter Shireen Abu Akleh in the West Bank city of Jenin.
“I condemn the killing of Shireen Abu Akleh. The killing of a clearly identified press worker in a conflict area is a violation of international law. I call on the relevant authorities to investigate this crime and bring those responsible to justice,” UN website cited Azoulay as saying.
The UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process took to Twitter to express his strong condemnation.
Tor Wennesland offered his deepest condolences to the family of the slain journalist and wished a speedy recovery to her injured colleague.
“I call for an immediate and thorough investigation and for those responsible to be held accountable. Media workers should never be targeted,” said Mr. Wennesland.
His Deputy, Lynn Hastings, who is also the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, highlighted the risks journalists face in reporting the news.
Ms. Abu Akleh was killed as the UN was marking World Press Freedom Day in Gaza “showing dangers journos face every day”, she wrote on Twitter. “Prompt investigations must be conducted for accountability.”
The UN human rights office, OHCHR, said it was appalled by the killing.
“Our Office is on the ground verifying the facts,” OHCHR tweeted. “We urge an independent, transparent investigation into her killing. Impunity must end.”
Source: Jordan News Agency