Independent reporter Richard Medhurst was detained for nearly 24 hours under the UK’s anti-terror law
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and UK’s National Union of Journalists (NUJ) have condemned the recent arrest in the UK of independent reporter Richard Medhurst. In a joint statement addressed to New Scotland Yard anti-terrorism head Matt Jukes and dated Tuesday, the unions expressed their shock and concern over what they consider efforts to stifle press freedom.
Medhurst, a British citizen of Syrian descent, was arrested at London’s Heathrow Airport on August 15. According to his own account, he was taken off a plane and detained at a police station for over 24 hours. His phone and work equipment were seized, and he was subjected to a search and questioning.
He was told that he was arrested under Section 12 of the UK’s Terrorism Act 2000 on charges of “expressing an opinion or a belief that is supportive of a proscribed organization.” While he was eventually released, Medhurst said he does not yet know whether he will face charges.
Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ general secretary, and Anthony Bellanger, IFJ general secretary, warned that Medhurst’s arrest could have a chilling effect on journalists in the UK and worldwide, as they might now fear arrest by UK authorities simply for doing their job.
“Both the NUJ and IFJ are shocked at the increased use of terrorism legislation by the British police in this manner. Journalism is not a crime,” they stated, arguing that the powers contained in anti-terror legislation must be used proportionately and not wielded against journalists in ways that stifle press freedom. They requested a meeting with Jukes and urged UK authorities to provide clarity on Medhurst’s case.
The Terrorism Act 2000 grants police broad powers to prosecute and punish offenses related to terrorism. Its Section 12 criminalizes anyone who “invites support” for an organization designated as terrorist or “expresses an opinion or belief that is supportive” of it. A person found guilty under this section could face up to 14 years in prison and a hefty fine.
Medhurst told the Anadolu news agency that he was never given a clear reason for his detention, but believes it was linked to his reporting on the war in Gaza. The journalist is a vocal supporter of Palestine and its militant group Hamas, considered a terrorist organization by the UK government.
He also expressed concerns that his arrest could set a dangerous precedent, noting that London is increasingly using the Terrorism Act “not against terrorists, but against political dissidents.”
Medhurst covers international affairs on his YouTube channel and hosts a program on Iran’s Press TV, while also publishing opinion pieces in other outlets. He previously contributed several articles to RT.