Lebanese Journalist Detained Over Interview with Israeli Spokesman
January 27, 2025
12:17 PM
Reading time: 4 minutes

Layal Alekhtiar, a Lebanese journalist working for the Saudi-owned Al Arabiya network, was detained and questioned by the Lebanese government this week after interviewing Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Spokesman Col. Avichay Adraee in October 2023. The interview, conducted in Arabic, was aired following Israel’s ground invasion into Gaza, prompting allegations of violating Lebanon’s law on boycotting Israel.
Alekhtiar, who resides in Dubai, was detained upon her arrival in Beirut and faced accusations of “communicating with enemy officials.” These charges stemmed from a formal complaint filed by a group of Lebanese journalists affiliated with Hezbollah, accusing Alekhtiar of facilitating communication with Israel.
In response to the detention, Alekhtiar took to X (formerly Twitter), condemning what she described as “blatant political persecution” and judicial repression. She firmly stated, “I am not afraid because I am Lebanese from now until the Day of Resurrection and Arab from now until my last breath. You will not touch my freedom, my dignity, or my convictions, no matter what you do.”
Alekhtiar defended her actions, stating she had conducted the interview respectfully, asking all necessary questions, without praising or insulting her guest. "A respectable journalist will respect their guest, no matter who it may be, even if it’s someone from the opposition," Alekhtiar explained.
The interview, which was aired by Al Arabiya, was not only met with official backlash but also sparked a campaign against the journalist led by Hezbollah supporters. In November 2023, Al Arabiya issued a statement in support of Alekhtiar, emphasizing that her detention was an assault on journalistic values, freedom of the press, and balanced news coverage.
The Lebanese Social Democratic Party, Kataeb, also condemned the campaign against Alekhtiar, calling it an attack on free journalists who oppose dragging Lebanon into war.
Following her detention, Alekhtiar was released on bail of 50 million Lebanese pounds (approximately $558), though she remains under investigation. In her statement after release, Alekhtiar wrote on X, "Enough with the bullying and assault on people and their dignity. The Israelis are at the border, not in Jumeirah, Daoura, or Dekwaneh."