International Federation of Journalists condemns Turkish drone attack targeting journalists in North and East Syria

PARIS — The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) issued a strong public statement condemning the recent Turkish drone attack targeting journalists affiliated with JinTV in North and East Syria. The IFJ demanded a thorough investigation into the attack and emphasized the urgency of upholding a UN convention aimed at safeguarding the lives of journalists.

#Syria🇸🇾: A suspected drone attack by Türkiye killed driver Faisal Haj Sinan, an employee of Jin TV, and severely injured reporter Dalila Agid. We urge the authorities to launch an immediate investigation and to hold the perpetrators accountable. https://t.co/mBCPECynuB

— IFJ (@IFJGlobal) August 28, 2023

Urging a swift and comprehensive inquiry into the attack, which occurred on 23 August 2023 and resulted in the death of driver Necimedin Feysel Hec Sînan and the injury of journalist Dalila Agid, IFJ stressed its commitment to seeking justice for such heinous acts.

In a statement released via its official website on Tuesday, IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger stated that:

“We are deeply saddened by the killing of media employee Faisal Haj Sinan while performing his work, and wish a speedy recovery to our colleague Dalila Agid. The IFJ demands an independent investigation into this attack. Crimes against journalists must not go unpunished.”

Bellanger insisted that “more protection is needed at the international level to ensure that journalists’ and media workers are not targeted. That is why the IFJ is campaigning for the adoption of a new international convention at the UN level to enhance journalists’ safety.”