Overview
- The government filed its Supreme Court submission late on January 4 urging continuation of the ban on unescorted foreign journalists entering Gaza.
- Authorities say defence assessments show significant risk persists despite the October 10 ceasefire and warn access could hinder the recovery of hostage Ran Gvili’s remains.
- Independent entry has been barred since October 2023, with only limited, military-escorted access granted on a case-by-case basis.
- The Foreign Press Association condemned the filing as an infringement of press freedom and said it will deliver a robust response to the court.
- The court has repeatedly extended deadlines and has not set a ruling date, while press groups cite heavy journalist casualties in 2025 to press for unrestricted access.