Daijiworld Media Network – Beirut

Beirut, Jun 16: A correspondent for Iranian broadcaster Press TV has alleged that he was deliberately targeted by an Israeli drone while reporting from southern Lebanon, claiming he sustained injuries after a strike occurred near his location.

Journalist Hadi Hoteit said the incident took place while he was filming in an open area in southern Lebanon. A video shared by the reporter on social media purportedly shows the moment an explosion occurred close to where he was standing.

According to Hoteit, he was clearly identifiable as a journalist at the time of the incident. He said his vehicle displayed media markings and that he was wearing a press vest and helmet while carrying camera equipment.

“I was standing in an open area,” Hoteit said, arguing that there was no uncertainty about his identity as a member of the press.

The correspondent alleged that the drone strike targeted his position despite the visible press markings. He claimed that he was injured by six pieces of shrapnel during the explosion.

Describing the incident as a “war crime”, Hoteit accused Israeli forces of intentionally targeting journalists covering developments in the region.

Footage circulating online appears to show an explosion occurring near the reporter while he was recording. However, the circumstances surrounding the incident and the authenticity of the video have not been independently verified.

There was no immediate response from Israeli authorities regarding the allegations.

The claim comes amid continued tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border, where military activity, drone operations and exchanges of fire have frequently placed journalists and civilians at risk.

At present, it remains unclear what the intended target of the strike was and whether any official investigation will be launched into the incident.

Israeli authorities have not publicly commented on the allegation that a journalist was deliberately targeted. The video shared by Hoteit has also not been independently authenticated by international agencies.