PALESTINIAN PHOTOJOURNALIST MOTAZ AZAIZA HAS BEEN NOMINATED FOR THE NOBEL PEACE PRIZE.

Since October 2023, Palestinian journalists have gone against all odds to bring the raw, unfiltered images of Israel’s strike on Gaza straight to our screens. One of them–and perhaps the quickest to post real-time updates–was Motaz Azaiza. His unwavering and rapid reporting brought the harrowing images of war to the world’s attention, contributing to raising awareness about the dire situation in Gaza. His dedication to documenting the atrocities committed against his people has now earned him a nomination for the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize, a recognition that highlights his unyielding commitment to truth and justice.

Azaiza’s journey as a photojournalist took a heartbreaking turn on October 12, when an Israeli airstrike claimed the lives of 15 members of his family. Yet, even in the face of unimaginable loss, Azaiza did not waver. For 108 days, he continued to report from the heart of Gaza, providing real-time updates to millions on Instagram, bringing the world closer to the horrors unfolding in the besieged territory. His work made the world a witness to war crimes that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.

Nominated by Norwegian parliament member Ingvild Wetrhus Thorsvik, Azaiza’s candid coverage of the Gaza conflict has resonated with people around the world, offering a perspective that is both deeply personal and universally impactful. He has been called the eyes and ears of Gaza, a title that reflects not just his bravery, but also the profound importance of his work in keeping the world informed about the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

Motaz Azaiza’s path as a photographer began with a focus on beauty and hope, but the reality of the conflict in Gaza transformed his art into a relentless chronicle of suffering. Despite the pain and loss, his resolve to continue sharing the truth remains unshaken. Sharing the announcement of this nomination on X, he said, “I have been nominated for 2024 Nobel Peace prize for giving the world an insight into the atrocities in Gaza. I hope my people will get peace NOW. Free Palestine.” His nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize is not just a recognition of his work, but a call to the world to pay attention to the struggle of the Palestinian people.

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