The use of drones in attacks on journalists has increased in 2025, resulting in the deaths of at least 39 media professionals, according to a new report by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).
According to a report released by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), the use of drones in attacks on media professionals has surged in 2025, with at least 39 incidents recorded. The report highlights that the majority of these attacks, 28 incidents, were attributed to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in the Gaza Strip, while five were linked to the Rapid Support Forces, a paramilitary group currently in conflict in Sudan. This trend signifies a troubling escalation in the risks faced by journalists in conflict zones, as drones offer a lethal and remote means of targeting individuals.
In 2025, a record total of 129 journalists and media workers lost their lives while performing their duties, with two-thirds of these fatalities, as reported by the CPJ, being caused by Israeli forces. The implications of such violence against journalists are severe, as it not only endangers lives but also poses a significant threat to press freedom and the ability of the media to operate independently in conflict areas. The report emphasizes the necessity for greater protections for journalists and accountability for those who perpetrate violence against them.
In response to the CPJ report, Israeli forces issued a statement vehemently denying the allegations, asserting that they do not intentionally target journalists or their families and claiming that the report relies on vague accusations and unverified data. This denial reflects ongoing tensions regarding the treatment of journalists in conflict zones, raising questions about the standards of accountability and transparency necessary to safeguard press freedoms in volatile environments.
