Journalists Targeted In Pakistan
Prominent TV anchor Hamid Mir has survived a gun attack after gunmen opened fire on his car.
According to reports, Mir’s attackers were riding motorcycles and he sustained multiple wounds. The journalist was admitted to a Karachi hospital, where he is recuperating.
Reports say four men on motorcycles opened fire on Mir’s car as he was going from Karachi airport to the office.
Mir is known as one of the most controversial journalists in Pakistan. He prominently interviewed Osama bin Laden.
US Condemns The Attack
As an advocate for press freedom, the United States of America today expressed strong condemnation on the vicious attack on television journalist Hamid Mir in Karachi, Pakistan.
In her remarks in Washington DC, Department Spokesperson Jen Psaki said the incident is the latest in a series of worrisome attacks on journalists in Pakistan.
Ms. Psaki highlighted that freedom of the press, including ensuring that journalists can safely carry out their vital mission, is of paramount importance to freedom of expression and to the healthy functioning of any democracy.
“We wish Hamid Mir a speedy recovery, and urge the Government of Pakistan to bring all those responsible for these attacks on the media to justice.” – Ms. Psaki
Pakistani members of the press continue to face pressure to self-censor and restrict their coverage of sensitive issues. Journalists are targeted in very volatile environments like Pakistan.
