Israel identifies 170 individuals killed in Gaza as alleged undercover terrorists

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has released declassified information identifying 170 individuals killed in the Gaza Strip whom the military alleges were undercover terrorists rather than journalists. According to the IDF, these individuals held roles in various media organizations but were also active members or agents of groups such as Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

The released dossiers include specific details intended to substantiate these claims, such as birth dates, military ranks, and dates of affiliation with militant organizations. The IDF stated on social media that “carrying a camera or vest does not give you immunity to be a terrorist.”

Among those identified is Anas Jamal Mahmud al Sharif, a media worker associated with Al Jazeera and formerly Reuters, who was part of a team that won a 2024 Pulitzer Prize for photography. The IDF maintains that its actions are consistent with its support for press freedom while targeting combatants embedded within media structures.