Defending journalists who resist Israel

Head of Gaza’s Press Syndicate Yasser Abu Hayen has claimed Palestinian journalists “bear a great responsibility” in resistance efforts against brutal attacks by the Israeli occupation. Speaking exclusively to Arabstoday, Abu Hayen said journalism depended on “suitable” social and political surroundings, meanwhile blaming Israeli air strikes that targeted press institutions for preventing Palestinian journalists from performing their proper function. The Syndicate boss praised journalists’ efforts in covering recent attacks carried out by the Israeli army, displaying facts on the ground as well as “painful scenes” to the world. “Palestinian journalists have always formed a shield to protect Palestinian rights throughout the struggle against occupation,” Abu Hayen said. “They have supported the resistance with their pens during the recent war, contributing to our historic victory over Israel.” Abu Hayen called on international press institutions, including the International Union for Journalists and the Arab Journalists Union, to file judicial cases against the Israeli army for crimes committed against Palestinian journalists during the November attack on the Gaza Strip. Recent damage only increased the demand for more developed equipment, he said. Abu Hayen meanwhile congratulated the Arab Journalists Union for working to unify Palestine's media profession. “The new officials of the union will form an umbrella to defend the rights of journalists,” he said.