Geneva – SAM Organization for Rights and Liberties expressed deep concern over the brutal assault targeting journalist Mohammed Al-Hammadi, correspondent for Suhail TV, while he was returning to his home in Al-Shamayatayn District, Taiz Governorate. The organization affirmed that this crime constitutes a blatant violation of press freedom and a serious infringement of human rights.
The organization pointed out that the report submitted by the Taiz branch of the Journalists’ Syndicate, based on Al-Hammadi’s account, revealed harrowing details of the incident. According to the journalist, he was ambushed by an unidentified individual who struck him on the head with a sharp object, causing him to lose consciousness due to heavy bleeding. He was subsequently rushed to the hospital for urgent medical treatment.
SAM noted that repeated violations of this nature against journalists in Yemen reflect a disturbing climate of impunity and contribute to a broader pattern of intimidation aimed at silencing media professionals, especially those covering humanitarian and human rights issues.
The organization emphasized that freedom of the press is a right guaranteed under both Yemeni and international law, and that attempts to silence journalists through physical violence or threats must not be tolerated.
SAM called for the immediate apprehension and prosecution of the perpetrator, along with the implementation of preventive measures to protect journalists from such attacks. These measures should include creating a safe working environment for media professionals and strengthening oversight and accountability mechanisms to prevent aggressors from evading justice.
The organization also urged all relevant official bodies, including the Ministry of Interior and the Public Prosecutor’s Office, to fulfill their legal obligations in ensuring the safety of journalists. Additionally, SAM called on international organizations concerned with freedom of expression to condemn the attack and to exert pressure to end the targeting of journalists in Yemen.