Independent journalist criticizing zionist regme’s genocidal actions in Gaza detained in UK
A British journalist, known for criticizing Israel's actions in Gaza, has been temporarily detained in the UK under Section 12 of the Terrorism Act 2000.
In a video shared on his X account on Tuesday, Richard Medhurst revealed that he was detained on Thursday at London’s Heathrow Airport and kept in custody for nearly a day.
The journalist criticized his arrest, describing it as “pre-meditated” and “orchestrated,” and pointed out that numerous individuals in Britain have been detained due to their work in journalism.
He added that the entire process seemed intended to humiliate, intimidate, and dehumanize him, making him feel like he was being treated as a criminal.
“There was absolutely no necessity to keep me detained for such an extended period, and I suspect it was intentionally done to disturb me mentally. I firmly and completely deny all the allegations made by the police. I am not a terrorist and I have no criminal history.”
Medhurst mentioned that he is offering an alternative to mainstream media but lamented that he is facing “political persecution” in his own nation.
“However, he expressed a sense that individuals like himself, who are vocal and reporting on the issues in Palestine, are being singled out.”
“In Palestine, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza stands as the most urgent global news. Nonetheless, it appears that any remark made on the subject can be easily misconstrued as a severe offense.”
The journalist additionally criticized the British government for restricting freedom of speech.
“Freedom of the press and speech are heavily jeopardized. The government is intensifying its efforts to silence those who criticize its role in genocide,” he stated.
Medhurst, a former host on Iran’s English-language news channel Press TV, has been outspoken in his condemnation of the Israeli government and has criticized London for its involvement in the atrocities committed against Palestinians in Gaza.
Scott Ritter, the former UN weapons inspector and notable geopolitical analyst, described Medhurst’s arrest as “political persecution” intended to “impede [his] crucial work as a journalist.” Ritter made this statement following an FBI raid on his home earlier this month, which he referenced in a post on X.
