Hamas begins to use force to release Alan Johnston
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Hamas has begun to use force to release captured BBC news reporter Alan Johnston. Hamas also plans to release ten of its soldiers who were captured on Monday.
Johnston was kidnapped in Gaza City on March 12, and has since been kept in captivity by a group calling itself The Army of Islam. Despite mounting diplomatic pressure from Hamas and the British Government, Johnston has not yet been released.
The actions by Hamas come after reports that The Army of Islam planned to capture more journalists in order to strengthen their position, bargaining for the release of Iraqi Sajeda Rishawi, imprisoned in Jordan.
Hamas' armed division is reported to have surrounded the neighbourhood of Sabra in Gaza, taking control of the suburb. The Army of Islam has threatened to kill Johnston should any rescue attempt be made using force. One civilian fatality has been reported as a result of the fighting between Hamas militants and The Army of Islam.
However, a spokesperson for Hamas said, "This operation is not aimed at freeing Johnston," suggesting the primary objective is freeing its own men.
Related news
- 4 July 2007: BBC Reporter Alan Johnston is released in Gaza
- 3 July 2007: Hamas begins to use force to release Alan Johnston
- 26 June 2007: New video released shows BBC journalist Alan Johnston wearing 'explosive belt'
- 18 June 2007: Kidnappers of BBC reporter Alan Johnston deny his release
- 17 June 2007: BBC reporter could be released within next few hours
Sources
- "Hamas: Battle for Alan Johnston’s release has begun" — Ynet, July 3 2007
- "Civilian killed in firefight between Hamas and Army of Islam" — ABC News, July 3 2007
- James Hider and Paul Martin. "Johnston at risk as Hamas tightens its noose around Gaza kidnap gang" — The Times Online, July 3 2007
