MEAA statement on Israel and Palestine crisis

The Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA) is appalled at the outbreak of violence unfolding across Israel, Palestine and the region.

We grieve the unfathomable loss of life occurring amidst this crisis, including the killing of civilians, particularly children. We grieve for the workers who have been killed performing their jobs, including journalists, nurses, health workers, and paramedics.

At the time of this statement, over 30 journalists and media workers have been confirmed dead, including Roshdi Sarraj, a freelance Palestinian journalist who had worked for the ABC’s 7.30 program.

We condemn all acts of violence in the region and the attacks and killings must stop immediately.

A lasting and just peace in the region can only be achieved through the recognition of the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians, and Palestinians must have the right to freedom and self-determination.

The international community must not accept the collective punishment of civilians as a tactic of war.

Our union joins the calls for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further escalation and any further loss of human life.

The media must also be allowed to report freely on the conflict without any form of censorship. It is vital that phone and internet lines into Gaza remain uncut so journalists can do their jobs.

MEAA is opposed to all forms of violence, bigotry and discrimination and has no tolerance for anti-Semitism or Islamophobia.