GAZA (PIC)– Hamas called for support of journalists and condemned attempts to silence journalists in a statement the movement issued on the occasion of press freedom day on Thursday.
In its statement Hamas called on the PA government to support Palestinian and foreign journalists alike and to provide them with the protection they need to carry out their noble mission adding: “we reject the policy of muzzling [the press] by anyone anywhere.”
The movement also called for facilitating the success of journalists in conveying the suffering of the Palestinian people and exposing the occupation crimes stressing its rejection of all forms pressure threats or assaults against journalists and media institutions by anyone.
Hamas further called on Arab and Islamic media to intensify its coverage of the Palestinian issue taking into consideration the gravity of the situation in Palestine.
The movement also called on Palestinian media to adopt a discourse that enhances Palestinian unity and reflects Palestinian aspirations for freedom.
Hamas also called on those holding the British journalist Allan Johnston to immediately free him saying that what the kidnappers have done contradicts with Palestinian customs of respecting and extending hospitality to guests.
The movement expressed its appreciation of the role of journalists and media institutions and “the sacrifices they make to defend the truth in the face of the Zionist enemy and its various tools.”
