Journalists Killed in Northern Syria

Tragedy Strikes in the Middle of Conflict

Two journalists from Turkey’s mainly Kurdish southeast have been killed reportedly by a Turkish drone while covering the fighting between Ankara-backed militia and US-backed Kurdish fighters in northern Syria, journalists’ groups said today. The tragic incident highlights the risks that journalists face while reporting on conflicts and the importance of ensuring their safety.

The Incident

Nazim Dastan and Cihan Bilgin were killed yesterday near the Tishrin dam east of Aleppo when their car was hit, the Dicle Firat Journalists’ Association said. The two journalists were covering the fighting between Ankara-backed militia and US-backed Kurdish fighters in the region.

Condemnation and Calls for Accountability

The Dicle Firat Journalists’ Association condemned the attack, describing the pair as “two valuable journalists” reporting on the violence in northern Syria. “We condemn this attack on our colleagues and demand accountability,” the group said.

The Turkish Journalists Union also condemned the attack, saying they were “allegedly targeted by a Turkish UAV”, commonly known as a drone. “We condemn the attack. Journalists cannot be subjected to attack while performing a sacred duty. Those responsible must be found and tried,” the union’s branch in the southeastern Kurdish-majority city of Diyabakir said.

Investigation and Response

According to the pro-Kurdish Mezopotamya news agency, the explosion was caused by a Turkish drone. The London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights also reported two journalists being killed in Aleppo province, saying it was by a “Turkish drone strike.” The Turkish army insists it never targets civilians but only terror groups.

Conclusion

The killing of journalists Nazim Dastan and Cihan Bilgin serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that journalists face while reporting on conflicts. It is essential that journalists are protected and that those responsible for their deaths are held accountable. The incident also highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability from governments and military forces in their use of drones and other weapons.

FAQs

Q: Who were the two journalists killed in the incident?
A: Nazim Dastan and Cihan Bilgin were the two journalists killed in the incident.

Q: What was the cause of the explosion that killed the journalists?
A: According to the pro-Kurdish Mezopotamya news agency, the explosion was caused by a Turkish drone.

Q: Who condemned the attack?
A: The Dicle Firat Journalists’ Association and the Turkish Journalists Union condemned the attack.

Q: What is the response of the Turkish army to the incident?
A: The Turkish army insists it never targets civilians but only terror groups.