Israeli and Palestinian Activists Rally for Peace Following Journalist’s Death

BREAKING: Israeli and Palestinian activists are rallying for peace in Gaza, emphasizing that “journalism is not a crime,” just days after the tragic death of journalist Mariam Dagga. In a powerful demonstration on Friday in Nazareth, Israel, protesters donned blue-and-white ‘Press’ stickers, symbolizing the grave risks journalists face in conflict zones.

The protest comes in the wake of a deadly airstrike earlier this week that struck Nasser Hospital in Gaza, claiming the lives of Mariam and four other reporters. This tragic event is part of a broader conflict that has resulted in over 63,000 deaths in Gaza since hostilities erupted on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas attack that killed 1,200 people in Israel and left 251 hostages.

Protesters gathered in Nazareth, banging on empty pots to symbolize the hunger plaguing Gaza and holding signs that read “Don’t assassinate the truth.” The rally underscores a growing frustration over the war and its relentless toll on innocent lives, including journalists striving to document the humanitarian crisis.

Mariam Dagga, a 33-year-old freelancer for The Associated Press, was committed to sharing the stories of ordinary Palestinians affected by the war and the efforts of medical professionals treating the wounded. Her death has sent shockwaves through both communities, illustrating the human cost of the ongoing violence.

In an official statement, the Israeli military claimed the strike aimed at a supposed Hamas surveillance camera, asserting that journalists were not the intended targets. However, many, including the family of Mariam, are left questioning the justification of such actions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu referred to the attack as a “mishap,” but this has offered little solace to grieving families.

Mariam’s father, Riyad Dagga, spoke to reporters from his tent in Khan Younis, nearly 180 kilometers (111 miles) from Nazareth. Overwhelmed by grief, he recounted the moment he learned of his daughter’s death, saying, “I couldn’t walk. And I didn’t know what was around me.” His emotional testimony highlights the profound personal loss felt by families amidst the chaos.

Mariam’s sister, Nada, was with her when the attack occurred. She vividly remembers the last moment they shared, exchanging smiles just before the second strike hit. “The last look between me and her,” Nada recalled, her voice trembling. This poignant memory encapsulates the heartbreaking reality faced by families torn apart by violence.

In a frantic search for his sister, Mariam’s brother, Mohamed Dagga, recounted rushing into the stairwell after the attack, only to find her among the deceased. “I pulled her out and took her from the fourth floor to the operations room,” he said, reflecting the chaos and urgency of that tragic day.

As protests continue to unfold, the call for peace resonates louder than ever. Activists urge the international community to recognize the plight of civilians in Gaza, emphasizing that the war must come to an end. The deaths of journalists like Mariam Dagga serve as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who seek to document the truth in times of turmoil.

This rally for peace is more than just a demonstration; it is a collective cry for justice and humanity in the face of relentless violence. As the situation develops, the world watches, and the voices for peace grow stronger, demanding action and accountability for all lives lost.