A violent confrontation erupted Tuesday evening outside Jerusalem’s Old City when Israeli police attacked a group of journalists covering Muslim worshippers performing Tarawih prayers during Ramadan. Among those injured was CNN senior producer Abeer Salman, who suffered a fractured wrist after an officer allegedly twisted her hand.
The clash occurred near Lion’s Gate after worshippers, barred from praying inside the Al-Aqsa mosque due to wartime restrictions, gathered outside the Old City walls. Police forcibly dispersed the group multiple times, using stun grenades and pushing worshippers deeper into the Wadi Al Joz neighborhood.
Journalists documenting the incident reported that police damaged photographic equipment and confiscated memory cards. Two journalists were briefly detained, while others, including Salman, were assaulted while trying to check on their colleagues. Footage shows an officer in plain clothes grabbing Salman’s hand, leading to the fracture.
Israeli police issued a statement claiming journalists refused to follow orders and were “part of the disturbances,” stating that their press credentials were only recognized after detention. The Union of Journalists in Israel condemned the statement as “factually incorrect,” calling for immediate suspension of the officers involved and an internal investigation.
“Police officers attacked several journalists without provocation, including foreign press,” the union said, noting equipment damage and injuries sustained. Union member Nir Gontarz added that the assault was intentional, not accidental.
The Foreign Press Association also denounced the “unprovoked assault” and urged Israeli authorities to protect press freedoms. CNN confirmed the incident, emphasizing that their producer required hospital treatment and demanding accountability from the relevant authorities.
The attack highlights ongoing tensions in Jerusalem amid wartime restrictions, raising international concerns over press safety and freedom of reporting in conflict zones.#newsafro_
