An alleged Israeli police attack on an AFP photographer has drawn strong condemnation from an international media group, raising concerns about journalist safety during protests.
Veteran photographer Menahem Kahana, a former AFP employee, suffered injuries while covering a demonstration outside Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, in Jerusalem. The Foreign Press Association (FPA) said a water cannon struck Kahana at close range as he reported on protests against a controversial death penalty law.
The force of the spray reportedly knocked him to the ground, leaving him hospitalised with injuries to his neck, back, and head.
Images from the scene show Kahana lying on the ground next to a puddle of liquid mixed with the water that was sprayed. The FPA described the incident as a “violent and unprovoked attack” on a journalist performing his duties. “There simply is no justification for this attack on journalists doing their job,” the organisation said.
During a protest outside the Knesset against the death penalty law for Palestinians, Israeli police used a water cannon, injuring photojournalist Menahem Kahana. Video by: Tomer Cordovi pic.twitter.com/FdZ8pBbXgU
— Oren Ziv (@OrenZiv_) March 31, 2026The group also criticised what it called a lack of professionalism among officers and warned of a “climate of impunity” within law enforcement and political leadership. Israeli police did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the incident.
The case has intensified debate over press freedom and the treatment of journalists covering politically sensitive events in the region. The protest Kahana was covering followed the passage of a new law by Israel’s parliament.
Under the legislation, Palestinians in the West Bank convicted by military courts of attacks classified as terrorism could face the death penalty as a default sentence. The law has drawn criticism both within Israel and internationally, with concerns it may disproportionately affect Palestinians.
The incident highlights broader concerns about the risks journalists face while reporting on protests and political developments. Media organisations continue to call for greater protections to ensure reporters can carry out their work safely and without interference.
