The European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF) strongly condemns the recent arrest and detention of French journalists Yanis Mhamdi from independent media Blast, and Omar Faiad, reporter for Al Jazeera. Both journalists were on board the Freedom Flotilla (‘Madleen’) when intercepted by the Israeli army on the night of 8 to 9 June 2025. 

Journalists play a crucial role in reporting facts and bearing witness to events on the ground, especially in conflict zones. The freedom of the press is a fundamental right protected under international law, and the safety and unrestricted access of journalists must be maintained at all times.

Following our recent call for urgent, unrestricted access to Gaza for journalists we reiterate our call  on the Israeli government to ensure full respect for the media workers under the international human rights law. We further urge Israel to grant all accredited reporters safe and free access to the Gaza strip, allowing them to carry out their vital work independently and without intimidation.

We also call on the European Union and its member states to publicly and unequivocally stand up for press and media freedom globally. At a time when these freedoms are increasingly under threat, the EU must lead by example and demonstrate its commitment to protecting journalists and defending the right to report — especially in situations of armed conflict and humanitarian crisis.

We stand in unwavering solidarity with all journalists, media workers and outlets operating under dangerous circumstances, and we emphasise that any attempts to restrict their reporting undermine the pursuit of truth, justice, and accountability.