Palestinian-American Journalist Suspected of Ties to Iran

Palestinian-American journalist Naka'a Hamed, a resident of Beitin in her 30s, was arrested by Israeli security authorities on suspicion of contact with the enemy, incitement, and support for Iran. This was cleared for publication today (Friday).

According to police, Hamed serves as a reporter for the Iranian channel Presstv, and she is suspected of harming regional security or the IDF and its operations. The investigation, being conducted in cooperation with additional security agencies, is ongoing. The journalist was arrested two days ago near Bethlehem by investigators from the Samaria Central Unit of the Israel Police. Her detention was extended yesterday by seven days.

As part of the investigation, police are gathering findings and evidence intended to map out and expose the nature and character of the direct connection between the suspect and Iran and its representatives, while also examining content and publications that raise suspicions of open identification with terrorism and encouragement of it.

Police stated during the hearing that, in addition to the security offenses, the detainee is also suspected of the offense of "prohibited trade with the enemy." This refers to transferring funds, receiving wages, or engaging in economic cooperation with entities directly subordinate to the Iranian axis.

Israeli security authorities have recently increased their monitoring of channels and reporters funded by Tehran and its proxies, viewing information warfare and foreign funding as a direct arm of terrorist activity on the ground.