New Delhi, March 19: A correspondent for Russian state-run media outlet RT was injured on Thursday in southern Lebanon following an alleged Israeli missile strike during a live broadcast. The incident has intensified global concerns over journalist safety in active conflict zones.

Explosion Interrupts Live Report

Reporter Steve Sweeney and cameraman Ali Rida were filming near the Al-Qasmiya Bridge when a sudden explosion occurred close to their position. Footage captures the moment the blast disrupted the live segment, leaving both journalists wounded by shrapnel. Israel-Hezbollah Conflict: Israeli Airstrike Kills 6 in Eastern Lebanon, IDF Launches Major Offensive on Hezbollah Targets.

RT Journalist Injured in Israeli Strike

They were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where they remain under medical care. RT Editor-in-Chief Margarita Simonyan confirmed that both individuals were conscious while receiving treatment.

Russia Claims Deliberate Targeting

Russian officials and the RT team have alleged that the strike was intentional. Cameraman Ali Rida stated that the crew was clearly identifiable as media personnel, wearing “Press” vests and operating marked vehicles. Middle East Conflict: Iran Intensifies Attacks on Oil and Gas Facilities in Gulf After Israeli Strike on Key Gas Field.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova condemned the attack, arguing that the absence of major military targets nearby raises serious questions about the intent behind the strike. Moscow has called for international scrutiny and a formal response.

Rising Tensions in the Region

The incident comes amid escalating cross-border tensions between Israel and armed groups in Lebanon. While Israel has not issued an official statement regarding the specific strike, the development adds to growing international friction.

RT, often criticized by Western governments as a Kremlin-backed propaganda outlet, has previously faced sanctions and operational restrictions. However, the attack has reignited debates around the protection of journalists in war zones.

Global Concern Over Press Safety

The reported strike underscores the increasing risks faced by journalists covering conflicts. International observers continue to stress that media personnel must be protected under international law, regardless of geopolitical tensions.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 19, 2026 07:23 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).