Ahmad Hanayesh, a journalist with Radio Azadi and head of Radio Dunya and Radio Kahkishan, was attacked by unidentified assailants last night in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Mr. Hanayesh was shot at close range by unknown individuals who fled the scene afterward. His relatives have reported his health condition as critical, and he is scheduled to undergo surgery today.
The Afghanistan Journalists Support Organization (AJSO) strongly condemns this heinous attack and calls upon the Pakistani government to take responsible measures to ensure the safety of journalists. We urge authorities to swiftly identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice through the appropriate legal channels. Additionally, we call upon organizations advocating for journalists’ rights in Pakistan and globally to unite in our demand for thorough investigations and prevention of such cowardly acts in the future.
AJSO stands firm in condemning this despicable incident and urges international organizations supporting journalists to intensify efforts in facilitating the relocation of journalists from precarious situations in third countries.
We are closely monitoring Mr. Hanayesh’s situation and are in contact with relevant institutions to identify and apprehend those responsible for this reprehensible act.
It is worth noting that journalists in Pakistan have been subjected to attacks by unknown assailants on multiple occasions in the past.
Afghanistan Journalists Support Organization