Palestine has become the most perilous region for journalists, amid Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza, according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The watchdog revealed that almost 200 journalists have died during the conflict’s first 18 months, with at least 42 confirmed to have been killed while reporting.

RSF’s 2025 World Press Freedom Index paints a grim picture for journalists in Gaza, who, it says, are “trapped” and face extreme scarcity of basic needs like shelter, food, and water. In the occupied West Bank, the report details a surge in assaults and intimidation, especially after the events of October 7. Israeli forces and settlers are accused of escalating violence, while arrests of Palestinian reporters have spiked.

Meanwhile, Hamas and Islamic Jihad have obstructed journalists suspected of ties to Israel. The Palestinian Authority also drew criticism for imposing a restrictive cybercrime law that curtails speech and press liberties.

As a result, Palestine’s press freedom ranking fell six positions to 163rd out of 180 countries.

Globally, freedom of the press declined, with 112 nations experiencing setbacks and the average index score falling to an all-time low of 55.

The United States slipped two spots to 57th, largely due to policies under President Donald Trump, who RSF says has made moves to undermine press independence and weaponize federal agencies.

Israel’s own ranking plunged 11 places to 112, amid heightened censorship and favoritism toward pro-government media.

Norway retained the top position, followed by Estonia, the Netherlands, and Sweden.