2013-12-04

 I’lam received a reply to the letter it sent to the Be’er Sheva Magistrate Court on Monday, December 2, in which I’lam demanded that the court suspend a ruling ordering journalists to hand over photos they took at local demonstrations to the police for purposes of investigation.

The court decided to cancel its decision outright after the police withdrew their request without any explanation.

I’lam had addressed its letter to the entire police force and the Be’er Sheva Magistrate Court, demanding that the ruling be postponed, even if it meant filing a lawsuit.

I’lam maintained that the police’s request was contrary to constitutional values, and would have clearly violated journalists’ right to practice their profession freely and to protect the identity of their sources (the reporter’s privilege). I’lam asserted that the police cannot exploit the work of journalists, which forms the backbone of a democratic society; in other words, their request was not justified.

I’lam mentioned there was a heavy police presence during the protests and that they also took photos. Their request was a way to intimidate journalists, as they were aware that the demonstrations would have widespread influence in the media.