Israel drops threat to deport, ban journalists
Sunday, June 26, 2011
JERUSALEM (AP) -- The Israeli government has dropped a threat to issue lengthy deportation orders against journalists aboard a Gaza-bound flotilla.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that he ordered authorities to find a formula for the reporters if they are on a flotilla that violates Israel's entry laws.
On Sunday, Israel said any journalist caught on board could face deportation and a 10-year ban from the country.
Journalists say they should be allowed to cover a legitimate news story. Israel said the media would be complicit in an illegal breach of its naval blockade of Gaza.
A year ago, Israel raided a similar flotilla. Nine Turkish activists who clashed with Israeli naval commandos were killed.
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