News organizations have stated that Hasan Eslaya is no longer affiliated with their networks, following accusations from Israel that he collaborated with Hamas. The discussions reportedly circulated through a CNN message outlining the change in status.
There were indications that both CNN and the Associated Press had previously engaged with Eslaya as a freelancer, though not as staff members. Recent statements indicate that both outlets have terminated all cooperation with him. The Associated Press also noted that there were no agency reporters present at the Israel-Gaza border on October 7, nor did any reporter cross the border line on that day.
CNN clarified that Eslaya was not part of the core staff, but instead contributed on a freelancer basis from time to time. This distinction appears to have influenced subsequent coverage choices and the framing of events near the conflict region.
In parallel, a government press office requested formal statements from the leaders of several major media organizations, including the Associated Press, Reuters, CNN, and The New York Times, regarding the work of photojournalists in areas affected by the Hamas attack reported on November 7. Officials voiced concerns raised by a non-governmental group about journalist involvement associated with some outlets and the broader impact on casualties among military personnel and civilians. This note stands as part of ongoing inquiries into how frontline reporting is conducted during intense conflicts.
There was also a follow-up denial from The New York Times about an employee’s participation in the October 7 events. Additionally, prior reports touched on discussions about exchanges involving Palestinian detainees and other individuals held in relation to conflicts in the region, reflecting broader negotiations that intersect with media coverage and humanitarian considerations.