The Syrian Future Movement is following with grave concern the reports made by journalist Alaa al-Hajj regarding the harassment and threats she has faced from some Syrian officials due to her professional coverage of the repeated Israeli incursions into Quneitra Governorate, despite the serious risks faced by journalists there.
The Syrian Future Movement, while expressing its full solidarity with Syrian journalists working in the field, affirms that freedom of the press and the right of journalists to report the truth are fundamental pillars in building a new, free Syria. It asserts that restricting or threatening journalists is unacceptable behavior that contradicts the values and goals of a modern state, namely justice, transparency, and accountability.
The Syrian Future Movement also emphasizes that the repeated Israeli attacks on southern Syria constitute a blatant violation of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. It further states that attempts to silence the patriotic voices documenting these violations serve the interests of the occupier and weaken the Syrian home front during this delicate transitional phase.
The Syrian Future Movement calls on the local authorities and the transitional administration to launch an immediate and transparent investigation into the harassment to which journalist Alaa al-Hajj and other journalists have been subjected.
The Syrian Future Movement also calls upon international media outlets and human rights organizations to stand in solidarity with Syrian journalists in Quneitra and other border governorates. We urge all free Syrian media to continue their role in uncovering the truth and defending national sovereignty without fear or hesitation.
The Syrian Future Movement reaffirms its unwavering commitment to defending national dignity and freedom of expression, and to the right of every Syrian to know the truth and to live in a secure, independent homeland governed by justice and the rule of law.
