Press watchdog CPJ reviews Gaza casualty list after accusations members tied to terror groups

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) is undertaking a comprehensive review of its records concerning journalists killed during the Israel-Hamas War. This action comes after Israeli media reports surfaced, alleging that several individuals previously listed as journalists were, in fact, operatives for Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

CPJ stated that it removes names from its database if evidence emerges indicating individuals were not journalists, were not active in that capacity at the time of their deaths, or were engaged in combat. This policy applies globally. In line with this, CPJ has removed eight names from its 'Killed' database after they were confirmed as members of Hamas or PIJ. An additional 12 individuals were removed for other reasons, with all 20 names now listed on CPJ’s 'Journalist casualties' page.

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CPJ has always been clear that we do not include anyone in our data sets if there is evidence that they were engaging in combat or inciting imminent violence. This is consistent with international humanitarian law, which considers journalists affiliated with non-state actors to be civilians, provided they do not directly participate in hostilities.

As of June 25, 2026, CPJ documents 209 individuals as journalists or media workers killed by Israel in Gaza and detention centers since October 7, 2023. CPJ CEO Jodie Ginsberg emphasized the organization's commitment to not including individuals engaged in combat or inciting violence in its datasets, aligning with international humanitarian law that considers journalists affiliated with non-state actors as civilians unless they directly participate in hostilities.

CPJ outlined its verification process, which involves at least two independent sources, desk research, and in-person research where feasible. However, the organization noted that in-person verification from outside Gaza has been impossible since the war began due to Israel's refusal of access. CPJ strongly condemns the misrepresentation of combatants as journalists and the misuse of the 'Press' insignia.

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CPJ condemns in no uncertain terms the misrepresentation of combatants as journalists or media workers - or the misuse of ‘Press’ insi