CPJ Reports Record Journalist Deaths in 2025, With Israel Accountable for Two-Thirds

A record 129 journalists were killed in 2025, marking the deadliest year for media workers since at least 1992, according to a report by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). Israel was responsible for two-thirds of these deaths, with most victims being Palestinian journalists covering the Gaza conflict, as reported by Reuters, The Guardian, and Middle East Eye.

The CPJ's data shows that 81% of the targeted journalist killings occurred in contexts involving Israel, highlighting increased dangers such as drone strikes and systematic restrictions on press freedom in Gaza. The ongoing violence in the region has raised significant concerns about violations against journalists and allegations of genocide, detailed by Expansion MX and Middle East Eye.

Mexico ranked third worldwide with six journalists murdered in 2025, following Israel and another unspecified country, according to La Jornada and Lopez Doriga Digital. These deaths reflect continuing threats that reporters face in conflict zones and regions with elevated crime and political instability.

The CPJ report underscores persistent impunity for perpetrators of attacks on journalists, which fuels the rising body count across multiple regions. DW News and Dawn both emphasize the global implications of these trends for press freedom and safety.

Looking ahead, the international community and press advocacy groups will be watching for responses to the CPJ findings, including potential investigations into Israel’s role in these killings and measures to enhance protections for journalists working in conflict zones. The report also stresses the urgency of addressing systemic threats to media workers globally to prevent further escalation.