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Israeli airstrike wounds two journalists in south Lebanon (al-Tiri)
An Israeli airstrike in al-Tiri, southern Lebanon, wounded two Lebanese journalists, with conflicting reports on casualties and ongoing rescue efforts. Lebanese authorities and aid groups described efforts to reach the injured while warnings impacted operations.
Why It Matters
The incident underscores risks faced by journalists near frontline areas and raises concerns about protection of media workers amid cross-border hostilities and ceasefire mechanisms.
Timeline
6 Events
IDF statement on actions near southern Lebanon
April 22, 2026
The Israeli army said it identified two vehicles in southern Lebanon that had departed from a Hezbollah-structure. It stated the individuals violated ceasefire understandings and posed an imminent threat, so an air strike hit one vehicle and the structure from which they fled was also struck; the IDF added that two journalists were injured and that rescue teams were not being prevented from reaching the area.
Lebanese President Aoun comments on journalists' detention and calls for restraint
April 22, 2026
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated he was following up on the circumstances surrounding the detention of Zeinab Faraj and Amal Khalil in Tayr Harfa as a result of Israeli shelling, and urged refraining from targeting media professionals while they carry out their duties.
Journalists' backgrounds are noted
April 22, 2026
Amal Khalil is described as a veteran correspondent for Al-Akhbar; Zeinab Faraj is a freelance photographer who frequently worked with Khalil.
Ambulance teams enter Tiri with army escort and bulldozer to search for Khalil
April 22, 2026
Ambulance teams escorted by the Lebanese army and accompanied by a bulldozer entered Tiri to search for Amal Khalil. Rescuers were able to enter after several hours and contacted the 2024 ceasefire mechanism and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
Red Cross reports Faraj rescued; Khalil not reached; rescue halted by warning strike
April 22, 2026
A Lebanese Red Cross official told AFP that Zeinab Faraj had been rescued, Amal Khalil had not yet been reached, and rescuers withdrew due to a warning strike.
Airstrike hits al-Tiri; two journalists wounded; two killed reported
April 22, 2026
An Israeli airstrike targeted the town of al-Tiri in southern Lebanon, wounding two Lebanese journalists Amal Khalil and Zeinab Faraj. The health ministry said the strike killed two people in al-Tiri, wounded Faraj, and left Khalil trapped.