The world of journalism mourns the loss of Samer Abudaqa, a brave and dedicated photojournalist and cameraman who was tragically killed during an Israeli air raid in Gaza. Abudaqa’s family and colleagues remember him as a man of love and dedication to his craft, highlighting the sacrifices made by journalists in conflict zones.
Abudaqa, 46, was born and raised in the town of Abasan al-Kabira, east of Khan Younis in Gaza. He joined Arabic in 2002 and had been working for the organization for over 20 years. Despite the dangerous situation in Gaza, Abudaqa insisted on staying to cover the war, leaving his wife and four children who had moved to Belgium for safety three years ago.
Abudaqa’s son, Zain, recalls the last conversation he had with his father, where he was encouraged to nurture his talents and dreams. Zain, who has a talent for singing, was being supported by his father to develop his skills. The family had hoped to reunite in Belgium once it was safe to do so. However, Abudaqa’s dedication to his work led him to remain in Gaza.
On the day of his death, Abudaqa, along with his colleague Wael Dahdouh, went to film a report at the Farhana school in Khan Younis. Despite the known dangers in the area, Abudaqa did not hesitate to cover the story. Tragically, a reconnaissance missile targeted them as they were leaving, killing Abudaqa and injuring Dahdouh.
Abudaqa’s colleagues remember him as a journalist who always sought out important stories and had a keen sense of capturing powerful images. He was described as someone who worked tirelessly, “like a bee,” and was always willing to help others. His dedication to his work and his colleagues was evident in his actions, such as slaughtering two sheep for his colleagues and bringing sweets upon his return from visiting his family in Belgium.
The loss of Abudaqa is a devastating reminder of the dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones. In just two and a half months, Israel’s war on Gaza has claimed the lives of at least 100 journalists. The high number of casualties among journalists emphasizes the need for their important work to be protected and recognized.
Abudaqa’s death serves as a poignant example of the sacrifices made by journalists who risk their lives to bring the truth to the world. Despite the risks, journalists like Abudaqa and his colleagues continue their work to report events on the ground, believing that it is the strongest way to respond to the war. Abudaqa’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his dedication and bravery will continue to inspire journalists around the world.
As the world mourns the loss of Samer Abudaqa, it is crucial to remember the importance of supporting and protecting journalists who risk their lives to shed light on conflicts and bring stories to the public. The tragic loss of Abudaqa should serve as a reminder to all of us to value the work of journalists and the sacrifices they make to keep us informed.
