On August 12, 2025, demonstrators gathered in Mexico City’s historic center for a candlelit vigil. They urged the Mexican government to sever diplomatic ties with Israel.
This protest followed the deaths of Al Jazeera journalists, including Anas al-Sharif and Mohamed Qreiqeh, in Gaza. The vigil highlighted growing global outrage over the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Deadly Strike on Gaza Journalists
Gaza hospital officials and Israeli authorities confirmed the deaths of al-Sharif, Qreiqeh, three other Al Jazeera journalists, and two others.
The attack targeted a media tent outside al-Shifa Hospital. Al Jazeera reported that an Israeli airstrike killed the journalists, raising the total to 237 journalists killed since the war began.
Israeli Military’s Hamas Allegation
The Israeli military claimed al-Sharif led a Hamas cell, justifying the strike. Al Jazeera rejected this accusation, calling it baseless.
Dr. Mohammed Abu Salmiya, al-Shifa Hospital’s director, stated Israel targeted the journalists to silence coverage of Gaza atrocities.
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) condemned the killings, noting 192 journalists have died since the conflict’s start, making it the deadliest for press in modern history.
Global Condemnation and Context
The United Nations called the attack a “grave breach” of humanitarian law. Protests erupted worldwide, condemning Israel’s actions.
The CPJ reported that most journalist deaths were caused by Israeli airstrikes, with 20 cases classified as targeted murders.
This incident follows a pattern of violence in Gaza, including hospital raids and civilian deaths, worsening the humanitarian crisis.
Mexico’s Response and Next Steps
The Mexico City rally, attended by about 200 people, was part of broader global protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Demonstrators demanded accountability and an end to diplomatic relations. As tensions rise, calls for justice and press freedom grow louder, with ongoing scrutiny of the conflict’s impact on journalists.
Nigeria Issues Urgent Flood Alert for 19 States Amid Heavy Rainfall