Palestinian Center for the Protection of Journalists Mourns Courageous Journalist Hajar Harb

The Palestinian Center for the Protection of Journalists (PJPC) has announced with deep sorrow the passing of journalist Hajar Harb, a fearless voice in Palestinian media, who died at the age of 37 after a prolonged battle with illness. Harb’s death marks a significant loss to the journalistic and humanitarian communities both in Palestine and across the Arab world.

Born in Gaza City in 1987, Hajar Harb pursued her studies in journalism and media at the Islamic University of Gaza. From the beginning of her career, she dedicated herself to truth-telling, highlighting issues that many dared not touch.

Harb reported for various local and international outlets, including The Washington Post, and was renowned for her bravery and ethical journalism. Hajar’s investigative work focused largely on corruption and human rights abuses, particularly within the healthcare and humanitarian sectors.

Her reporting often came at a great personal cost, including health consequences and restrictions on her freedom of movement. Yet, she remained undeterred, driven by a passion for justice and a deep empathy for the vulnerable.

In recognition of her outstanding work and resilience, Harb was awarded the Courage in Journalism Award by the International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) in 2016. But beyond her accolades, Hajar was also a tireless community activist, advocating for cancer patients, women's rights, and those marginalized by conflict and poverty—causes that were deeply personal, as she too fought cancer for years.

Despite her deteriorating health, Harb continued to write and document stories until her final days. Her words remained a form of resistance, shedding light on the struggles of her people and calling for justice in the face of oppression.

She leaves behind a legacy defined by integrity, courage, and unwavering commitment to truth. In its official statement, the PJPC extended condolences to Harb’s family, friends, and colleagues, describing her as "a cherished colleague and one of the free voices of Palestinian journalism." The organization reaffirmed its commitment to continue her mission in defending press freedom and ensuring journalists can work safely and without fear.

Hajar Harb's passing is not only a loss for Palestinian media, but also for anyone who believes in the power of journalism to challenge injustice. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of journalists to come.