Minister of Interior and National Security Mr. Fathi Hammad has given clear instructions to facilitate the tasks of journalists and media institutions in the Gaza Strip.
Hammad stressed, during his meeting on Thursday with a delegation from the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate, that "the journalists' union is the only officially representation that approved by the Ministry of Interior in handling issues pertaining to journalists and media institutions."
He affirmed that the members of security of services should respect the emblem of press and holders of Journalists Syndicate card during the performance of their duties in the coverage and field follow-up of events, noting that his ministry is concerned with strengthening the positive relationship that should prevail between the security man by the Palestinian journalist.
Accordingly, Hammad gave instructions to facilitate travel of journalists through the Rafah crossing "in press missions".
He also gave instructions to facilitate the entry of foreign journalists to Gaza, after coordination with the union, and give facilities to obtain the necessary permits to press institutions through the union as well.
Hammad confirmed that " It is forbidden to summon any journalist in any issue related to media work in accordance with law and in the presence of a representative of the union," pointing out to the need to develop a mechanism to be agreed upon between the union and the security services to prevent friction between the two parties in the media coverage.
The minister Hammad also pointed out that his ministry had put all its available capabilities in the service of journalists to ensure a safe working environment for them and safeguard their rights and dignity.
