Beirut, Lebanon (HRNW): Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and Legal Agenda have concluded that an Israeli airstrike that killed Lebanese journalist Amal Khalil and injured journalist Zeinab Faraj in southern Lebanon was an apparent war crime, according to investigations published in early August. The rights organizations called for accountability over the April 2026 attack.
The organizations’ investigations examined the circumstances surrounding the strike and concluded that the journalists were civilians and that available evidence did not establish a lawful military justification for the attack. Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have urged authorities to investigate the incident and ensure accountability for any violations of international humanitarian law.
The case has drawn particular attention because journalists working in conflict zones are protected under international humanitarian law when they are not directly participating in hostilities. Rights organizations have repeatedly stressed that attacks on journalists can undermine independent reporting and obstruct the public’s ability to understand events during armed conflicts.
The organizations also raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding emergency assistance following the strike, including reported delays affecting rescue efforts. Israeli authorities have expressed regret over civilian deaths while maintaining that the incident occurred during broader military operations.
The latest investigation has renewed international calls for effective accountability mechanisms and stronger protection for journalists and other civilians caught in armed conflicts.
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Disclaimer
This HRNW report summarizes findings and allegations publicly presented by Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, Legal Agenda, and other reporting sources. The characterization of the incident as an apparent war crime reflects the findings of those organizations and is not presented as a final judicial determination by HRNW. HRNW maintains editorial independence and encourages readers to consult the original investigations and official statements.
