Rod Nordland, Renowned War Reporter, Passes Away at 75

Nordland’s career illustrated his commitment to truth and the human experience, both in conflict zones and through his battle with cancer.

Rod Nordland, an esteemed reporter acclaimed for covering the world’s major conflicts, passed away at 75 on Wednesday at his home in Manhattan. His wife, Leila Segal, confirmed that the cause of death was glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. For nearly four decades, Nordland reported from various frontline locations around the globe before shifting his focus to his own health journey after receiving a terminal diagnosis in 2019.

As a journalist for The New York Times since 2009, Nordland often reflected on the human condition brought forth by conflict and turmoil. His personal experiences led him to write a deeply introspective piece about his illness, which he later expanded into a memoir titled "Waiting for the Monsoon," published last year. In it, he explored his life’s challenges, marking a departure from his extensive coverage of wars to an intimate narrative of his struggles.

Nordland’s vibrant career began in the 1970s when newspapers like The Philadelphia Inquirer supported overseas reporting. His journey took him to Southeast Asia in 1979, establishing him as one of the era's notable correspondents. He continued to report from various conflict zones until health concerns forced his return to the U.S. after four decades abroad.

Through both oral histories and written narratives, Nordland captured the essence of vulnerability amidst chaos, ensuring that the stories of those impacted by war received the attention they deserved. His legacy as a journalist remains a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, both in warfare and through his personal battles, shaping a life dedicated to informing others.