Palestinian journalists impose news blackout to protest attack on news outlet
By ASSOCIATED PRESS
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip

Palestinian journalists imposed a news blackout on Tuesday to protest an explosion at the Gaza City offices of the al-Arabiya satellite news station.

The Hamas-led government, which has been critical of the Arabic-language news channel's coverage, of failing to protect it. Al-Arabiya journalists said they had received dozens of threats, including death threats.


Hundreds of journalists and Palestinian officials gathered in the courtyard of the parliament building in Gaza City on Tuesday to protest the Hamas attack, which caused considerable damage but no injuries because the offices were empty at the time.

Ahmed Bahr of Hamas, the deputy parliament speaker, called the blast a "cowardly act" timed to coincide with the resumption later Tuesday of coalition talks between Hamas and the rival Fatah Party of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.