Activists and US Criticize Attack on Journalists During Jerusalem Day Parade

**International Outcry as Journalists Assaulted During Jerusalem Day March**

In a disturbing turn of events that has drawn sharp criticism from both the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and the U.S. government, journalists covering the Jerusalem Day flag march were subjected to harassment and assault. The annual event, which marks the capture of East Jerusalem in the 1967 war, turned violent for reporters on the ground, raising serious concerns about press freedom and safety in the region.

Among the victims were Palestinian freelance journalist Saif Kwasmi, associated with Al-Asiman News, and Nir Hasson, a seasoned reporter for the Israeli daily Haaretz. Both journalists faced direct assaults while covering the march, which saw tens of thousands of flag-waving Israelis take to the streets. The CPJ, citing reports from the journalists’ employers, highlighted these attacks as indicative of the perilous conditions under which journalists are forced to operate.

The situation escalated despite a significant police presence, with 18 individuals, including teenagers, arrested for various offenses, including the assault on a journalist. However, the CPJ criticized the response of Israeli security forces, accusing them of inaction as journalists were openly harassed and assaulted by protesters. The organization has called on Israel to conduct a thorough investigation into these incidents and hold the perpetrators accountable.

Echoing the CPJ’s concerns, the U.S. State Department condemned the attacks on journalists, emphasizing the importance of protecting reporters from violence. “We have seen the videos of this incident… And we strongly condemn them,” stated a U.S. State Department spokesperson, urging the Israeli government to ensure the safety of journalists.

These incidents occur against a backdrop of broader criticism of Israel’s treatment of journalists, including allegations of targeting media workers in conflict zones and restricting press freedom, such as the temporary ban on Al Jazeera operations citing national security. Israel, however, denies targeting journalists and defends its actions as necessary for national security.

As international condemnation grows, the spotlight is once again on Israel to uphold press freedoms and protect journalists, ensuring they can perform their crucial role without fear of violence or repression.