Yahya Barzaq

Their life

Yahya Barzaq (Arabic: يحيى برزق; died 30 September 2025) was a Cypriot Palestinian freelance photojournalist and newborn photographer from Gaza. Beginning his career capturing the joy and innocence of newborns and families, Barzaq’s photography evolved into powerful documentation of Gaza’s suffering under war. Despite being displaced and facing constant danger, he continued his work with dedication, contributing images to outlets such as TRT World and other international media. His lens bore witness to the destruction, resilience, and humanity of the Palestinian people amid ongoing conflict. Barzaq’s death underscored the extreme risks journalists face in Gaza and the urgent need for their protection.

Yahya Barzaq was a talented photographer who began his professional journey as a newborn and family photographer in Gaza City. Known for his gentle and creative touch, he built a reputation for capturing warmth and emotion in peaceful settings. However, as the conflict in Gaza escalated, his passion for storytelling drew him into photojournalism, where he began documenting the everyday struggles of civilians under siege — from destroyed homes and mass displacement to the emotional toll on families.
Forced to flee Gaza City due to constant airstrikes, he continued his work while displaced, often sharing his photos on social media and through international partners. Barzaq collaborated with TRT World and other outlets, becoming known for his courage and compassion in portraying Gaza’s human reality. Tragically, his life and career were cut short on 30 September 2025, when an Israeli airstrike hit the area where he was working in Deir al-Balah. His death drew condemnation from press-freedom organizations worldwide, who mourned his loss as another blow to truth and journalism in conflict zones.

How they died

He was Killed in an Israeli airstrike in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza.

Yahya Barzaq was killed on 30 September 2025, during an Israeli airstrike that struck a café and nearby carpentry workshop in Deir al-Balah. Reports indicate he was either uploading footage or taking refuge in the area after fleeing heavier bombardments elsewhere. The strike killed several civilians in addition to Barzaq. TRT World and press-rights organizations condemned the attack, describing it as part of the continuing pattern of journalist casualties in Gaza.

Why we remember them

This record exists so that Yahya Barzaq, and all who are named in this archive, are never reduced to a number.

References & sources