Basra: The Culture and Media Committee of the Basra Provincial Council has announced its comprehensive support for journalists and media professionals following an attack on a reporter from a local channel. This commitment underscores the council’s dedication to ensuring that media personnel can perform their duties as protected by constitutional and legal provisions, particularly the Law on Freedom of Expression and Journalists’ Rights, without facing any restrictions.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Aqeel Talib Al-Fariji, the Committee Chairman, emphasized the importance of maintaining impartiality and urged governmental and civil authorities to collaborate in ensuring the unobstructed flow of information to the public. Al-Fariji highlighted the need for a responsible and purposeful national media message.

In response to the incident, the Culture and Media Committee plans to convene a meeting with the local branch of the Journalists Syndicate and media directors from government institutions. This meeting aims to identify and address the challenges hindering journalistic activities, thereby enhancing the role of Basra’s press both professionally and nationally.

The reporter was assaulted by members of the security detail for Oil Minister Bassem Mohammed Khudair during the minister’s visit to the Faihaa oil field in Basra province. The security personnel reportedly confiscated the reporter’s press credentials and obstructed him from covering the events at the site.