Vermont lawmakers are pressing for a thorough investigation into a military assault by Israel on journalists, including Vermont’s own Dylan Collins. On October 13, 2023, Collins, a video journalist for Agence France-Presse (AFP), was injured in a tank attack while reporting near the Israeli-Lebanese border.
Key Incidents and Reactions
The attack involved two shells fired 37 seconds apart, resulting in significant injuries. Collins sustained shrapnel wounds, while his Lebanese colleague, Christina Assi, suffered grave injuries that led to the amputation of her right leg. Tragically, Issam Abdallah, a Lebanese Reuters journalist, was killed in the assault.
Background of the Attack
- Date of Attack: October 13, 2023
- Location: Near the Israeli-Lebanese border
- Casualties: Collins injured, Assi amputated, Abdallah killed
This incident marked the first attack on journalists by Israel’s military following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and 250 hostages taken. The Committee to Protect Journalists reports that at least 246 journalists have been killed by Israeli forces across multiple regions, including Gaza and Lebanon, over the past two years.
Political Pressure for Accountability
At a press conference outside the U.S. Capitol, Vermont Senator Peter Welch and Representative Becca Balint highlighted their frustration with both Israeli and U.S. government responses. They accused officials of evading inquiries about the military’s authorization of the attack on journalists.
Welch noted that his office, along with Senator Bernie Sanders’, has submitted eight requests for information to the U.S. State Department since May 2024. He expressed disbelief over the Israeli government’s claim that their investigation found no misconduct, pointing out that Collins had not been interviewed, nor had forensic evidence been sought.
International Human Rights Violations
Both lawmakers asserted that the Israeli strikes on journalists violated international human rights standards. Collins and his colleagues were wearing identifiable press gear, further emphasizing their status as non-combatants.
Welch stated, “A deliberate attack on civilians is a war crime under international law.” Independent investigations by organizations such as Amnesty International and the United Nations concluded that the attack appeared deliberate, questioning the military’s engagement rules.
Conclusion
As pressure mounts for accountability, Vermont’s delegation continues to seek clarity on the October 13 incident. The tragic event serves as a focal point in the broader discussion regarding the safety of journalists in conflict zones and the need for rigorous investigations into military actions against media personnel.
