Hamas has released British journalist Paul Martin, who was arrested in Gaza one month ago. Hamas accused Martin of spying for Israel, but did not give details of the charges against him.
Martin was arrested after appearing in a Gaza court to testify on behalf of an acquaintance who was accused of providing assistance to Israel. His arrest was apparently linked to his investigation of weapons smuggling in southern Gaza.
Upon release, Martin was ordered to leave Gaza immediately. Hamas officials also banned him from Judea and Samaria, although Hamas does not control those areas.
After exiting Gaza Martin spoke to journalists and stated his innocence. “I was never accused of any crime, although I was interrogated for something which was blatantly impossible for me to have done,” he said.
'Victory for journlists'
Martin said his release would benefit other reporters. “My release is a great victory for the right of journalists to be able to cover difficult stories in a fearless and accurate way without being subject to arrest, or worse at the hands of a group that dislikes their journalism,” he said.
Hamas leaders stated that Martin's release was a result of international pressure. “The government responded to international appeals by media figures and politicians,” said Hamas undersecretary Ahmed Yousef.
Senior Hamas terrorist Mahmoud Zahar said Hamas continues to suspect Martin of aiding Israel. Martin “took activities against our security,” Zahar accused, adding that the reporter “was working on defaming the image of the Palestinian people by saying that they smuggle weapons through tunnels.”
The Bethlehem-based Maan news agency reported that Martin's arrest was linked to interviews he conducted with Gaza Arabs accused of assisting Israel.