In 2024, Time magazine recognized Palestinian photographer Motaz Azaiza as one of the ‘100 Most Influential People’ for his role in capturing the world’s attention during the devastating Israeli military operation in Gaza.
The prestigious list categorizes these influential individuals into six groups: leaders, pioneers, artists, icons, innovators, and titans. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 33,899 lives, primarily women and children, as reported by the local health ministry.
The conflict began following a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, which led to the tragic loss of 1,170 lives, primarily civilians, according to Israeli data. Several nations and international organizations have criticized Israel’s reaction to the incident as “excessive.”
In response to the retaliatory Israeli attacks, at least 97 journalists and media personnel, with 92 being Palestinians, have been killed, as reported by the Committee to Protect Journalists . The CPJ also highlights the significant risks faced by journalists in Gaza, including intense Israeli airstrikes, disrupted communication lines, supply shortages, and widespread power outages while covering the conflict.
Throughout this challenging period, Azaiza diligently documented the consequences of the fighting, Israeli aggression, and extensive damage to Gaza for over 100 days.
The freelance photographer, compelled by the devastating circumstances of the conflict, found himself reporting from the frontlines as many foreign journalists were denied entry to Gaza. He gained international recognition by capturing raw, unedited videos while wearing a press vest and helmet, shedding light on the plight of injured children and people trapped under debris following Israeli aggression.
Azaiza’s Instagram showcased the transformation of Gaza from a city of light and happiness to one filled with sorrow and loss. In January, he evacuated Gaza and is now residing in Doha, Qatar. Time magazine highlighted Motaz Azaiza’s 108-day journey, stating that the 25-year-old Palestinian photographer served as the world’s eyes and ears, documenting life amidst the Israeli bombardment with his camera and press-marked flak jacket.
The magazine praised Azaiza’s photographs as providing a unique perspective of Gaza that few in the international press could match, acknowledging the significant risks he took. Since his evacuation, Azaiza has focused on raising awareness about the crisis and urging international intervention. He stated, “What is happening in Gaza is not for your entertainment. We are not sharing this to gain likes or views. We are waiting for you to take action and put an end to this war.”
Expressing gratitude for his inclusion, Azaiza said, “I feel blessed to represent my country wherever I go or achieve something.” Addressing those who doubt Palestine’s statehood or claim it as their own, he remained hopeful, saying, “Palestine will be free from Zionists and occupation one day, and my role in this fight is not over yet.”
From the onset of the conflict, a photojournalist has experienced significant growth in his online presence. As per Al Jazeera’s social media analysis, his Instagram following skyrocketed from approximately 27,500 to a staggering 18.25 million in just over 100 days since October 7th. His Facebook account, initially at a similar count, has now amassed nearly 500,000 followers. On another platform, he has garnered 1 million followers.
Born and raised in Deir Al-Balah Refugee Camp, Gaza, this individual pursued his studies in English Language and Literature at Al-Azhar University. Unfortunately, the university now lies amidst the ruins caused by Israeli airstrikes. After facing a brief period of unemployment post-graduation, he established his Instagram account to portray his homeland and its people in a positive light.
Despite this, he has documented Israel’s aggression in both 2014 and 2021.
In the midst of conflict and tragedy, Azaiza captured the strength and resilience of Gazans. One of his videos showed journalists enjoying a traditional Palestinian meal together. This talented photographer gained international acclaim from esteemed publications such as Time, GQ, and Vogue Arabia. In 2023, GQ Middle East named him their Man of the Year, while Vogue Arabia’s November issue celebrated Azaiza amidst Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. Previously, one of his photographs was featured in Time’s annual top 10 photos list.
Qatari PM lands in list for role in Gaza ceasefire negotiations
Simultaneously, Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, who additionally serves as the foreign affairs minister, has been included in the list.
The magazine stated, “Gulf nations thrive through their oil and gas exports, which generate immense wealth and a desire for prestige. Tiny Qatar demonstrated this by hosting the 2022 World Cup, attracting global attention. A year later, it gained a more serious prominence, emerging as a trusted mediator between Israel and Hamas.” The magazine also noted that the Qatari premier played a significant role in the negotiations, leading to a weeklong ceasefire and the release of over 100 hostages.
Regarding the Middle East situation, the magazine quoted him as saying, “Unfortunately, everyone is dancing at the edge.”
Other notable figures on the list include Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang, World Bank President Ajay Banga, Iranian Nobel Peace Prize laureate and women’s rights activist Narges Mohammadi, and Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny.
