Lebanese authorities arrest journalist for conducting interview with Israeli military spokesman
Date
1/28/2025 6:38:04 AM
(MENAFN) Lebanese authorities arrested journalist Layal al-Akhtiar, an anchor for the Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya channel, on Wednesday for conducting an interview with Israeli military spokesman Avichai Adraei in October 2023. The interview took place during Israel's initial ground invasion of Gaza and was conducted in Dubai, violating Lebanon's BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) law. Al-Akhtiar was detained upon her arrival in Beirut after a military prosecutor issued an arrest warrant in November 2023, accusing her of “communicating with enemy officials.” She attributed the complaint to individuals "linked to Hezbollah," calling it “blatant political persecution” intended to curb press freedom.
The journalist defended her actions on social media, stating, “I am not afraid because I am Lebanese between now and the Day of Resurrection and an Arab until the last breath. You will not touch my freedom, my dignity or my convictions.” She emphasized that she conducted the interview respectfully, asking necessary questions and treating her guest with respect, regardless of their identity. Al-Arabiya expressed full support for al-Akhtiar, calling the arrest warrant an "attack on the press" and condemning efforts to intimidate journalists. The Lebanese Kataeb Party also criticized Hezbollah’s alleged role in pressuring her arrest.
According to a report by Al-Monitor, al-Akhtiar was released on bail of 50 million Lebanese pounds (around $558) but remains under investigation. Lebanese law treats contact with Israeli citizens as treason or espionage, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to death. This law was previously applied in the 2018 arrest of actor Ziad Itani, which faced scrutiny from human rights organizations. Al-Akhtiar insisted that the interview was part of her professional duties, as she was assigned the task by Al-Arabiya, according to the Middle East Monitor.
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