Latifeh Abdellatif, a freelance photojournalist known for her work with prominent media outlets such as Reuters, ABC News, BBC, Al Jazeera, and TRT, was arrested by Israeli police at her home in the Old City of Jerusalem. The arrest occurred on Sunday, with charges including "incitement" and "support of terrorism." Abdellatif, who denies these charges, is a well-respected figure among her peers and is known for her dedication and professionalism in reporting on tensions around access to the al-Aqsa mosque compound.
Abdellatif has been actively covering clashes between Israeli police and Palestinian worshippers in the Old City, an area that has long been at the center of conflict. Her work has often placed her in volatile situations, leading to previous harassment by Israeli security forces. On Sunday, she was interrogated for three hours concerning social media posts linked to her professional work as a journalist.
"In these and other posts, it is evident that the suspect praises and glorifies the actions of terrorist organizations," said Israeli police.
Despite these allegations, Abdellatif's lawyer, Nasser Odeh, reported that a judge ordered her release under restrictive conditions. However, Israeli police appealed this decision to prevent her release.
"The police have requested to freeze the decision of the release until they submit an appeal with the central court. Right now, the release decision has been frozen until the appeal process goes into effect," stated Odeh.
Abdellatif's colleagues have come forward in support of her character and integrity. One colleague described her as "very kind and goes out of her way to help everyone, is respectable, and has good manners." Her mother also praised her character, highlighting "all the beautiful things in her character."
The arrest has raised concerns within the journalistic community, with tensions high following recent events in the region. A fellow journalist expressed anxiety over the situation, noting that they "are more concerned and afraid to cover the news that deals with Palestinian matters because it can easily be brought upon us as an incitement charge."
"have arrested and expelled eight journalists from the Old City and al-Aqsa Mosque since the beginning of this month," reported the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate.
Abdellatif's role as a single mother to a 7-year-old son adds another layer of complexity to her situation. As she navigates these legal challenges, her dedication to her profession remains unwavering. Her colleagues continue to stand by her side, recognizing the risks she takes daily to report on crucial issues in one of the world's most contentious regions.
