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Hamas disassociates from extremist islamic group { May 9 2007 } Original Source Link: (May no longer be active)    http://www.upi.com/International_Intelligence/Briefing/2007/05/09/hamas_urges_release_of_bbc_journalist/ http://www.upi.com/International_Intelligence/Briefing/2007/05/09/hamas_urges_release_of_bbc_journalist/ Hamas urges release of BBC journalist RSS Feed - International Intelligence - Briefing Published: May. 9, 2007 at 2:47 PM GAZA, May. 9 (UPI) -- Hamas does not want to be linked to an extremist Islamist group that kidnapped a BBC journalist, and is calling for his immediate release from captivity. Hours after the so-called Army of Islam claimed responsibility for the March 12 abduction of Alan Johnston, Hamas issued a statement in Gaza Wednesday urging the kidnappers to "take into consideration the higher Palestinian interests" and release the man. The statement, signed by Ayman Taha, a prominent Hamas member, said the Army of Islam's claim of responsibility now makes it easier to secure Johnston's release. He also denounced all forms of attacks on journalists and foreigners, saying these "harm the Palestinian cause and distort its honorable resistance." The official from Hamas, an Islamic organization that heads the Palestinian national unity government, stressed such acts were in violation of Islamic teachings, "which state respecting and protecting guests." Taha said Johnston, who's been BBC's Gaza correspondent for three years, has "greatly served the Palestinian cause and risked his life on more than one occasion to relay our grievances to the world." The Army of Islam, in a tape sent to media organizations, demanded the release of "Muslim prisoners" held in British jails and warned against the use of force in trying to free Johnston, claiming he was still alive. Meanwhile, Reporters Without Borders said it was becoming increasingly concerned over Johnston's captivity as his abductors failed to provide evidence he was unhurt. "We call on them not to delay his release with unrealistic demands. Their radicalized discourse and the lack of proof that he is still alive are making the wait for his family and colleagues unbearable," it said in a statement Wednesday. "Journalists must not be used as bargaining chips." © Copyright 2007 United Press International, Inc.

British hostage helps hamas credibility { July 4 2007 } British journalist alan johnston freed by hamas { July 4 2007 } Hamas disassociates from extremist islamic group { May 9 2007 } Hamas exploits british hostage situation { July 4 2007 } Hamas frees captive bbc journalist { July 3 2007 } Hamas offers amnesty on first day of gaza rule { June 15 2007 } Hamas shows muscle in bbc deal { July 5 2007 } Hamas uses mickey mouse for islamic teachings { May 8 2007 } Hamas will recognize israel when palestine state exists Israel hurts abbas image with direct support { January 20 2007 } Israel not serious about strengthening abbas { June 2007 } Israel says iran training hamas { March 6 2007 } Israel to free 250 palestinians but not Barghouti { June 2007 } Palestinian factions head up their rivalry { June 13 2007 } US says israel violated cluster bomb use { January 29 2007 } Violence grows between fatah hamas { May 17 2007 } West to restart direct aid to palestinians { June 18 2007 } Files Listed: 17

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