Record Journalist Deaths: Israel Linked to Most Killings in 2025 | CPJ Report

A record 129 journalists and media workers were killed worldwide in 2025, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). This marks the deadliest year for journalists since the CPJ began collecting data in 1992, surpassing the previous record set in 2024.

Rising Threats to Journalists

The Israeli military was responsible for two-thirds of all press killings worldwide in 2025, due to attacks on journalists in Gaza, Yemen, and Iran. New patterns of targeting journalists have emerged, including the utilize of drones in Israel, Sudan, Ukraine, Yemen, and Iraq. At least 28 journalists were killed in Israel by drones.

Still, dangers to journalists extend beyond active war zones. Killings were documented in Bangladesh, Colombia, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Mexico, Nepal, Peru, the Philippines, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia. Journalists in these regions were often targeted for their reporting on corruption and crime.

Smearing Campaigns and Impunity

According to the CPJ, Israel has employed “smearing campaigns” to target journalists, sometimes justifying killings after they occur by labeling victims as terrorists. Anas Al-Sharif, killed in August 2025, was reportedly smeared for months prior to his death due to his reporting on starvation and mass killings in Gaza.

Organized crime also poses a threat, with journalists killed in Mexico for exposing corruption. The CPJ reports that few investigations into these killings have occurred, and no one has been held accountable.

State Actors and Organized Crime

Most of the documented killings were carried out by state actors, though some were attributed to organized crime groups. In Saudi Arabia, journalist Turki al-Jasser was imprisoned for four years, sentenced to death, and then killed. In Yemen, a journalist was killed by the Houthi army.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall trend regarding journalist safety?

It is now the most dangerous time for journalists to work since the CPJ began documenting in 1992, indicating a growing threat to the profession.

What new technologies are being used to target journalists?

Drones are a new pattern of targeting journalists, documented in Israel, Sudan, Ukraine, Yemen, and Iraq.

Are investigations being conducted into the deaths of journalists?

According to the CPJ, there have been very few transparent investigations and no one has been held accountable for these deaths.

Given the increasing dangers faced by journalists worldwide, what steps can be taken to ensure their safety and protect freedom of the press?