Largest global journalists’ union urges Jordan to free pro-Palestine reporter

The largest global journalists’ union has confirmed that it is actively reaching out to Jordanian authorities concerning the release of pro-Palestine journalist Mohammad Faraj, who was detained earlier this month without being provided with any explanation for the reasons for his arrest.

Dominique Pradalié, the president of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), on Saturday characterized Faraj’s arrest, carried out without formal charges or justification, as shocking and expressed complete solidarity with the journalist and his family.

She also demanded the prompt release of the journalist, who works for the Lebanese al-Mayadeen television news channel, voicing optimism that diplomatic measures would soon bring about a resolution.

Pradalié also emphasized the ongoing initiatives undertaken by the IFJ to create a binding international agreement dedicated to safeguarding journalists globally.

She highlighted that the draft convention is still under development, and underscored the need for United Nations support to establish it as an international standard.

“The detention of journalists without clear cause is unacceptable,” Pradalié stated, reiterating the IFJ’s dedication to safeguarding press freedom and ensuring the safety of media professionals worldwide.

The family of Faraj released a statement on Friday, voicing deep concern about his health condition after detention. They called on relevant authorities to promptly provide clarity regarding his legal status and to guarantee his safety.

Media advocates demand immediate release of pro-Palestine reporter in Jordan

Media advocacy organizations call for the immediate release of pro-Palestine journalist Mohammad Faraj, who was detained in Jordan last Friday.

Faraj’s family visited him on Thursday, marking their first opportunity to see him since his arrest on December 12. They noted that he seemed to be in poor mental and physical condition, which has sparked serious concerns about his overall well-being.

The family acknowledged the significant public attention that Faraj’s case has received, noting the considerable support from those closely following updates on his detention.

The statement emphasized that since Faraj’s detention, the family has approached the situation calmly and with restraint, showing respect for Jordanian state institutions.

This approach, they explained, was partly based on assurances obtained through various sources that the conditions of his detention were deemed acceptable.

The family disclosed that Faraj still does not know his location of detention and has not been made aware of any formal charges against him.

They added that Faraj has firmly denied engaging in any actions that would justify his detention, stressing that voicing political opinions and backing resistance against Israeli occupation should not be considered a criminal act.

The family expressed concern that Faraj’s ongoing detention, without a transparent legal justification or formal notification of the reasons behind it, casts significant doubt on the legitimacy of the action.

They urged the relevant authorities to promptly address Faraj’s legal status, ensure his physical and mental well-being, and uphold his rights as guaranteed by the constitution and law.

Faraj was arrested after returning to Jordan on vacation with his wife, fellow journalist Rana Abi Jumaa. He was subjected to a thorough search and interrogation and then taken to an undisclosed location.

The detention comes as Jordan continues its official diplomatic and security cooperation with Israel, even as Tel Aviv intensifies its grip on the occupied West Bank. The regime continues to violate the November 2024 ceasefire agreement frequently and persists in occupying five locations in southern Lebanon.

Press TV’s website can also be accessed at the following alternate addresses:

www.presstv.ir