UN official deplores killing of journalists in Libya

The head of the United Nations agency tasked with protecting the freedom of the press today deplored the deaths of two photojournalists, who were killed in a mortar attack while on a reporting mission in the Libyan city of Misrata two days ago.

The head of the United Nations agency tasked with protecting the freedom of the press today deplored the deaths of two journalists, who were killed in a mortar attack while on a reporting mission in the Libyan city of Misrata two days ago.

Irina Bokova, the Director General of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), said filmmaker Tim Hetherington and photographer Chris Hondros, who died on Wednesday, had paid the ultimate price for their bravery and commitment to their profession.

“Their deaths serve as a tragic reminder of the dangers of this profession, and, at the same time, the critical role of the media in providing accurate and timely information on events that impact on so many lives and influence the course of history,” said Ms. Bokova.

Two other photojournalists, Guy Martin and Michael Christopher Brown, were seriously injured in the same attack.

“I wish Guy Martin and Michael Christopher Brown a speedy and complete recovery from their injuries,” Ms. Bokova added.

Mr. Hetherington, 40, was a seasoned filmmaker who contributed photographs to US magazine Vanity Fair. Restrepo is an acclaimed documentary film released last year about fighting in Afghanistan, which he directed with journalist Sebastian Junger had been nominated for an Academy Award. He held dual British and United States citizenship.

Mr. Hondros, 41, an award-winning United States war photographer, worked for the photo news agency Getty Images. His pictures appeared in many magazines and newspapers, notably on the front page of the Washington Post on 20 April.

The two men were covering the battle for Misrata in Libya, where opposition groups have taken up arms in a bid to oust Colonel Muammar al-Qadhafi, who has been in power for over four decades.