Journalists Forcibly Removed After Questioning Blinken on Gaza Policy

U.S. journalist Sam Husseini and The Grayzone’s Max Blumenthal were forcibly removed from a press briefing at the U.S. State Department after confronting Secretary of State Antony Blinken over America’s continued support for Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The incident has raised serious concerns about the treatment of dissenting journalists and press freedom in the U.S.

As Blinken began his final briefing, Husseini challenged him with a direct question about U.S. complicity in alleged war crimes in Gaza, referencing the International Criminal Court and the controversial Hannibal Directive, an Israeli military policy criticized for risking civilian lives. Blumenthal followed by calling Blinken a “monster,” accusing him of enabling genocide and continuing arms shipments to Israel despite a declared ceasefire.

Both journalists were quickly manhandled and removed by security, with footage showing them being dragged out as they attempted to speak. Husseini was later detained, prompting outrage from press freedom advocates.

Organizations such as Reporters Without Borders, the International Federation of Journalists, and other free speech groups condemned the removal, warning it sends a dangerous signal about the U.S. government’s tolerance for dissenting media voices. Critics noted that the incident comes amid growing domestic and international criticism of Washington’s role in the Gaza conflict, where thousands of civilians, including journalists, have been killed.

The State Department defended its actions, stating the disruption was inappropriate and violated protocol. However, critics argue that disrupting a press briefing with urgent human rights questions is a legitimate form of journalism, especially when the subject matter involves allegations of war crimes and public accountability.

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20250117-us-forcibly-removes-journalist-questioning-support-for-gaza-genocide/