An Israeli military court released Palestinian-American journalist Naqaa Hamed on bail on Tuesday after nearly two weeks in detention, her lawyer confirmed. Hamed was freed near Jenin in the occupied West Bank under the condition that she respond to any future summons related to the ongoing investigation.
Hamed, who has contributed to Iran’s state-owned Press TV, was detained by Israeli forces on September 15 at a checkpoint near Bethlehem while returning from a reporting assignment for Turkish broadcaster TRT. Her lawyer, Khaled Manahjeh, said she had spent her detention at Damon prison, located in northern Israel, under difficult conditions.
The investigation against Hamed centers on allegations that include incitement against Israeli settlers and military personnel, contact with a foreign agent, and providing information to media outlets regarded by Israel as hostile. Israeli authorities consider Press TV to be affiliated with Iran’s cleric-led government and have accused it of spreading propaganda. Hamed’s family and colleagues note that she ceased working with Press TV approximately a month ago and since has operated as a freelance journalist.
Hamed’s release followed the payment of a bail amounting to 8,000 shekels (approximately $2,600). She remains under investigation as Israeli military authorities continue to question her. The case comes amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, with the two countries involved in recent confrontations and mutual accusations of espionage and subversion.
