This recent tragic airstrike in Gaza, which killed five devoted media workers, reminds us of this fact. These brave souls were a breed of artists famous for their implacable devotion to their art. Among the victims was Hussam al-Masri, a 49-year-old stringer for the news agency Reuters. His friends and fellow journalists at the Middle East Eye network mourn him as “the journalist who never slept.” Lurzan Abu Aziz, 28, found her husband’s dismembered body that day after the violent raid. This devastating reality suddenly deepened the rift between their once-shared dreams and aspirations.
As the conflict in Gaza continues, the loss of these journalists underscores the dangers faced by those who strive to report the truth. Hussam and Lurzan are preparing to defend their PhD’s in media and law this year. Congratulations to them for pursuing their passion for journalism and academia! Tragically, Hussam’s dream of reaching this milestone together with Lurzan was cut short.
The airstrike also killed Mohammad Salama, a 24-year-old photojournalist and cameraman for Al Jazeera. Engaged to Hala Asfour on his birthday in November, Mohammad and Hala had been planning their wedding following a hoped-for ceasefire in Gaza. His untimely death has left her devastated.
Ahmed Abu Aziz, 29, was a freelance journalist and a talented photographer. Alex writes regularly for outlets such as Middle East Eye and Quds Feed. His love for the craft of journalism inspired everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.
Mariam Dagga, a 33-year-old photojournalist and mother to 13-year-old Ghaith, was in the house. She was relentless in her chase for a PhD in law. Alongside this trailblazing work, she gracefully managed the dual roles of a mother and pioneering journalist.
Finally, the life of Moaz Abu Taha, a 27-year-old freelance video journalist, was cut short by the same airstrike. Due to limited resources, he documented his practice with his phone. With all this, he still created a sense of urgency and a focus on documenting key moments on film.
Through these journalists’ personal journeys, we learn the depths of their professionalism and devotion to the work at hand. They highlight their profound family connections and dreams.
“We were just starting life and planning for the future,” lamented Lurzan Abu Aziz upon losing her husband.
“His dream was for us to earn our doctorates together. He always urged me to defend my dissertation no matter what, and he encouraged me endlessly. We were supposed to defend our theses together this year, but he left and I am alone, grieving his loss,” – Lurzan Abu Aziz.
Mariam Dagga’s devotion to her son Ghaith was evident in life and death.
“But now, after his death, I was struck by the fact that he had aged without me realizing it,” – Mohammad Salama.
Friends and family of Moaz Abu Taha described him as a kind person who was devoted to pursuing a career in journalism.
“You are my love, my heart, my support, my soul and my son whom I am always proud of,” – Mariam Dagga.
Hussam al-Masri’s father, Ezz al-Din al-Masri, shared memories of his son’s lifelong dedication to photography.
“Moaz was the youngest in our family, the spoiled one. He loved his work deeply, even though it hadn’t been his original career. He was very social and enjoyed making new friends everywhere,” – Adly Abu Taha.
Ezz al-Din shared an unforgettable story where Hussam worked tirelessly to push a live feed from within a hospital, despite military conflict surrounding its borders.
“He held his first camera in 1993 and from that year until now, almost 32 years, there was never a day without a camera by his side,” – Ezz al-Din al-Masri.
Her colleague, Siddiq Abu Dagga, remembered Mariam’s commitment to her craft, saying, “She was excellent, always 100% prepared.”
“To my surprise, he called me, saying he was still broadcasting from inside the hospital as the army surrounded them. I fought with him, demanding he leave immediately,” – Ezz al-Din al-Masri.
He also remembered Hussam’s spirit and energy.
“Hussam, even though he was nearing 49 years old, always carried the spirit of a child and an innocent, tender heart. I never felt that he could grow old or become an elder. I always treated him as my mischievous little boy,” – Ezz al-Din al-Masri.
Mariam Dagga’s colleague Siddiq Abu Dagga noted her dedication to her work.
“Mariam loved her work, was passionate about it, very fast in covering events and never stopped documenting everything. She was very kind and deeply cared about her family. She loved everyone and everything,” – Siddiq Abu Dagga.