Gazan Photographer Details Hamas Control Over Journalists and Unseen Oct. 7 Footage

Palestinian photographer Motaz Azaiza has revealed the pressures and restrictions faced by journalists in Gaza, including his decision not to publish footage from October 7th showing Gazans attacking Israeli hostages. Azaiza described witnessing Hamas militants' vehicle with captives and local residents subsequently assaulting them, but he withheld the images fearing Israeli identification of the perpetrators. He stated that journalists in Gaza must consider Hamas's reactions when reporting and avoid criticism of the organization.

Azaiza cited a WhatsApp group called "Smart," allegedly led by an individual linked to Hamas, as a tool for coordinating actions against journalists who published critical material. He claimed photographers in Gaza often stop filming when negative comments about Hamas are made. This account gained attention following a New York Post report on Hamas's influence over the Gaza media landscape since 2007, detailing how violations of reporting rules could lead to threats or physical pressure.

The New York Post article also mentioned a 2013 Hamas Interior Ministry meeting where journalists were reportedly told media work was part of the broader struggle. Since October 7th, new testimonies suggest journalists have faced threats or beatings for publishing criticism of Hamas by residents blaming the organization for the war's destruction. This environment can impact foreign media, which rely on local fixers and correspondents whose reporting may be shaped by fear of repercussions.

Azaiza, recognized by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in 2024, has brought renewed attention to the independence of Gaza reporting under Hamas's control. The New York Post questioned the extent to which "Smart" group members might have served as intermediaries for international media.