In 2025, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) reported a grim milestone with 129 journalists and media workers killed globally, marking it as the deadliest year for the profession in three decades. Among the incidents, the report highlights that two-thirds of these fatalities were linked to actions by the Israeli state, particularly emphasizing the targeted killings of Palestinian journalists in Gaza. The CPJ's findings suggest a disturbing trend in press freedom and safety, pointing to the increasing risks journalists face in conflict zones.

The escalation of violence in Gaza is underscored in the report, with 86 journalists among the deceased attributed directly to the ongoing conflict. This situation marks a significant increase from the 124 journalist deaths recorded in the previous year, further raising alarms about the deteriorating conditions under which journalists operate. The CPJ's assertion implies a systematic approach to targeting the press, particularly in regions experiencing conflict, and questions the accountability of state actors in safeguarding press rights.

This report highlights a broader issue related to the suppression of free speech and the role of government actions in endangering media personnel. As journalism becomes increasingly perilous, the implications are profound not only for press freedom but also for public access to information. The CPJ's findings serve as a wake-up call for international bodies to address the safety of journalists and take concrete actions against the violence faced by media workers across the globe.