Israel Lebanon: Minister emphasizes continued open entry for journalists

The Lebanese Minister of Information has made it clear that journalists are still allowed to travel to Lebanon unless they have links to Israel or terrorist groups. However, press freedom in the country is under pressure.

Lebanese Information Minister Siad Mikari has denied reports that journalists are being turned away when entering Lebanon. He stressed that this only applies to journalists who have links to neighbouring Israel or terrorist organizations such as the Islamic State (IS).

Security circles in Lebanon have introduced increased controls at the airport since the outbreak of the war between Israel and the Hezbollah militia. These measures are aimed at identifying Israelis who could enter Lebanon with a second passport.

In some cases, journalists reporting for Israeli media were turned away. "This is forbidden in our country, as we are at war with Israel," explained airport circles. People with Israeli stamps in their passports or Hebrew characters on their luggage are also being turned back.

Reports of entry refusals

The newspaper "L'Orient Le Jour" reported numerous cases in which people were prevented from entering the country without a clear reason. Among those affected were journalists, employees of aid organizations and Western business people.

Press freedom under pressure

According to the organization Reporters Without Borders (RSF), the press freedom situation in Lebanon has deteriorated since the war began a year ago. This development highlights the challenges facing journalists in the country.

SDA