War crime: Video captures reporter moments before Israeli drone strike

A journalist's camera was rolling when an explosion erupted nearby in southern Lebanon. The reporter alleges he was clearly identified as media personnel, raising fresh questions over the safety of journalists in conflict zones.

In Short

• Journalist said his vehicle, vest, helmet and camera carried press markings
• He said six pieces of shrapnel injured him during the strike
• The footage appears to show an explosion near him while filming

A Press TV correspondent has claimed that an Israeli drone deliberately targeted him while he was filming in southern Lebanon, with video footage purportedly capturing the moment the strike hit near his location.

Journalist Hadi Hoteit shared a video that he said shows the attack unfolding while he was reporting from an open area in southern Lebanon. According to Hoteit, he was clearly identifiable as a member of the press at the time of the incident.

Hoteit said media markings were prominently displayed on his vehicle, protective vest, helmet and camera equipment when the drone struck.

"I was standing in an open area," the journalist said, arguing that there was no ambiguity about his identity as a reporter on assignment.

CLAIMS OF DELIBERATE TARGETING

The correspondent alleged that the drone targeted his position despite the visible press markings. He said he suffered injuries from six pieces of shrapnel during the strike.

Describing the incident as a "war crime", Hoteit accused Israeli forces of deliberately targeting journalists.

The footage circulated online appears to show the moment an explosion occurred near the reporter while he was filming. However, the circumstances surrounding the incident have not been independently verified.

NO IMMEDIATE ISRAELI RESPONSE

There has been no immediate comment from Israeli authorities regarding Hoteit's allegations.

The claim comes amid continuing tensions and military activity along the Israel-Lebanon border, where journalists have repeatedly reported from areas exposed to cross-border fire and drone operations.

At present, it remains unclear what specifically was targeted in the strike and whether any further investigation into the incident will be conducted.

Israeli authorities have not publicly responded to the allegation that a journalist was intentionally targeted, and the footage shared by Hoteit has not been independently authenticated.

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