Israeli killing of Yemeni journalists marks deadliest attack on press in 16 years, watchdog says

The Israeli airstrikes that killed 31 journalists and media support workers in Yemen earlier this month were the second-deadliest attack ever on the press, according to a report by the Committee to Protect Journalists, a global watchdog

The Israeli airstrikes that killed 31 journalists and media support workers in Yemen earlier this month were the second-deadliest attack ever on the press, according to a report by the Committee to Protect Journalists, a global watchdog.

At least 35 people were reported killed during the Sept. 10 bombings that struck residential areas, a military headquarters and a gas station, according to the health ministry in the rebel-held northern part of the country.

Two media outlets, 26 September and Yemen newspaper, are located in the government's Moral Guidance Directorate’s headquarters, said the CPJ.

Nasser al Khadri, editor-in-chief of 26 September, described the killings as an “unprecedented massacre of journalists,” telling the CPJ that his offices were hit in the afternoon.

Both outlets are under the control of the Iran-backed Houthis, who say they are supporting Hamas and the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. Journalists, including those working for state-run or armed group-affiliated outlets, are protected under international law unless they take direct part in hostilities.