JFO: Freedom of the press threatened in Iraq

BAGHDAD / IraqiNews.com: The Journalistic Freedoms Observatory (JFO) has warned that journalistic freedoms in Iraq are in peril, noting that 256 violations against journalists and media workers have been recorded in the country throughout one year. In its annual report for the period May 3, 2008-2009, the observatory said that media personnel in Iraq were subjected to 58 physical assaults, 98 arrests and 14 detentions by U.S. and Iraqi security forces. Local and military authorities have closed down two local radio stations in Baghdad and Mosul, the observatory added. The observatory called on the Parliament not to pass any law that restricts the freedom of opinion and thought under any circumstances. Founded in 2004, the JFO is an independent organization that aims to monitor violations and acts of aggression against media workers in the country. SS (P) 1