Palestinian journalist Abdulkader Abu Shehadeh has urged international solidarity against political pressure targeting journalists and activists following his release from Israeli detention on Sunday.
Abu Shehadeh was arrested at his home in Jaffa on November 4 by Israeli police and the Shin Bet domestic security agency. He was detained on suspicion of “communicating with a foreign agent” after conducting an interview with Palestinian thinker Azmi Bishara about Israeli elections and Palestinian issues.
Despite police requesting an eight-day extension, the Tel Aviv Magistrate’s Court ordered his detention until November 8, resulting in his release without charges.
Upon his release, Abu Shehadeh was welcomed by residents, activists, and civil society representatives at the Jaffa Arab Affairs Association, where he addressed the crowd with a message of resilience.
“History didn’t start with us, nor will it end with us. We are part of a people, a cause. We demand justice, our rights, and equality for all,” he stated, emphasizing the desire to raise children free from fear and to view all people as human beings rather than numbers.
In an interview with Anadolu Agency, Abu Shehadeh highlighted the community’s support during his detention, describing his arrest as part of a broader systemic issue. “The attack on me is not an isolated event. This attack is part of political pressure on activists, journalists, and anyone who doesn’t fit the mainstream narrative dominated by the extreme right,” he said.
He concluded by calling for an end to war rhetoric and urging journalists and intellectuals to focus on building a future based on democracy, peace, and equality.
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