Israeli Arab journalist banned from leaving state

The Shin Bet security services have prohibited Israeli Arab author and journalist, Antoine Shalhat, from leaving the country until the end of the month for fear he may harm state security.

Shalhat received a letter at the beginning of the week informing him that Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, who is also acting interior minister, has signed a temporary order banning him from leaving Israel. The letter says the authorities are considering forbidding him to leave Israel for another year after that.

Shin Bet sources said the order was issued due to a concrete concern that Shalhat would take advantage of his trip abroad to contact hostile persons and carry out acts that could harm state security.

The Interior Ministry said the order was issued according to the emergency regulations at the Shin Bet's recommendation, and that the ministry has nothing to do with the decision.

The report raised angry reactions in the Arab community. The Israeli Arab human rights organization Adalah, which represents Shalhat, advised the prime minister and Interior Ministry in writing that this process infringes on Shalhat's right to a fair process, as his reaction to the claims against him were not heard. In addition, Adalah threatened to petition the court against the decision.

Shalhat is a member of the board of directors of I'LAM, the Media Center for Arab Palestinians in Israel. I'LAM said the move against Shalhat, who is a member of the center's board of directors, is part of the infringement on other Arab journalists' rights.