Doc. No: P/ME/602/09/E

Friends of Humanity International:

Palestinian Security Authorities must release immediately the two journalists Khuweirah and Albeekawi

"Friends of Humanity International" received with deep concern, the arresting of two journalists by security forces of the Palestinian Authority, in the last few days, in the Palestinian territories.

Security forces of the Palestinian Authority arrested, two Palestinian journalists Samer Khuweirah and Ahmad Albeekawi, because of their journalism activities. The two journalists, are correspondents of "Alquds TV", which is considered as Independent satellite channel, also many other correspondents of this TV were called in the West Bank for questioning by the Palestinian security authorities.

Samer Khuweirah was arrested in Nablus city in the West Bank, on Saturday, January 24, and after only two days on Monday, his colleague, Ahmad Albeekawi was also arrested in Jenin city in West Bank. The Palestinian security authorities summoned more other correspondents of (Alquds TV) channel, they are: Ibrahim Al-Rantisi, from Ramallah, and Mamdouh Al-Hmamrnah from Bethlehem

"Friends of Humanity" in this regard is deeply concerned about the procedures of arresting and summons, by the security authorities of the Palestinian Authority, to journalists and media professionals, these recent practices represent additional bad effects on press and reality of freedom of opinion and expression in the Palestinian territories.    

The Human Rights Group draws attention to similar previous practices, where many of journalists and media correspondents were subjected over past months for arrest and detention, interrogation and humiliating human dignity, by Palestinian security authorities, where all of such practices can not be justified.       

"Friends of Humanity" expresses its condemnation of this behavior, which violates the immunity of press , media, and workers in this field,  which is also considered a violation of freedom of opinion and expression and journalistic work, and violation of rights provided for in dealing with information and broadcasting without hindrance or restrictions, as well as violating the obligations of the Authority toward the Palestinian human rights and fundamental freedoms.

"Friends of Humanity International“ is expressing its concern about safety of the two journalists Samer Khuweirah and  Ahmad Albekawi, we demand the immediate release of both of them and their colleagues who may be detained by Palestinian authorities. Moreover the organization which defends human rights,  demands the cessation of exposure to correspondents and media crews in the Palestinian territories, as well as stop arrest, or summons, interviews, threats, or any other form of restrictions and harassment by Palestinian security forces.

Vienna 28 January 20099