WASHINGTON, Aug. 19, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The National Press Club expressed profound sorrow at the apparent death of American photojournalist James Foley, who had been missing since November 22, 2012. The terrorist group Islamic State released a video claiming to be Foley’s execution today.
The Washington-based organization extends condolences to the Foley family, which had mounted a worldwide campaign to find James, who had been working for Global Post. Earlier in his career, Foley was a reporter for Stars and Stripes.
“Our thoughts and prayers go to James’s parents, John and Diane Foley, who scoured the world to find their son, an extraordinary and brave photographer who sacrificed his personal safety to inform the world about the war in Syria,” National Press Club President Myron Belkind said. “James may have paid with his life. We can best honor James by holding those who try to silence the press accountable and to continue reporting, even in the world’s most dangerous places.”
Foley’s death is a reminder of how dangerous journalism can be. In Syria alone, more than 60 journalists have been killed since 2011, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. Dozens of others have been kidnapped. Worldwide, 30 journalists have been killed on the job in 2014.