The study was entitled, "The impact of the Israeli siege on media outlets in the Gaza Strip".
(MADA/IFEX) – 2 September 2010 – A study issued by the Palestinian Center for Development and Media Freedoms (MADA) shows that despite the serious consequences of the continuing Israeli blockade on all aspects of Palestinian life, including the media, media outlets were able to continue performing their duties.
The aim of the study, which is entitled “The impact of the Israeli siege on media outlets in the Gaza Strip”, prepared by Dr. Ahmad Hammad, was to identify the impact of the Israeli blockade on the performance of the Palestinian media, and the methods used by the occupation forces to prevent journalists and media institutions from covering the events.
The study looked at the legal status of journalists and media institutions working in the Palestinian territories, and their right to be protected during the war.
The study concluded that media institutions in the Gaza Strip suffer from a lack of press equipment, due to the non-entry of the necessary equipment for broadcasting, and other requirements for journalistic work. The embargo affects the printing and publishing as well because of a shortage in inks and papers, since the Israeli occupation forces prevent the entry of these products into the Gaza Strip.
The Israeli occupation forces also prevented the entry of Palestinian newspapers issued in Ramallah and occupied Jerusalem for long periods; in addition, restrictions on fuel have affected journalists’ and media workers’ mobility and movement.