Freelance journalist Paul Martin, who was arrested and detained by Hamas 26 days ago on alleged spying charges, was released in Gaza today to British authorities, Hamas leader Mahmoud Zahar confirms to Fox.
Zahar made the announcement from his home alongside officials from the British and South African consulates. Martin holds both British and South African citizenship.
The journalist was arrested in a Gaza court on Feb. 14, where he had intended to testify on behalf of a Palestinian militant charged with collaborating with Israel.
“Martin was doing activities against our situation,” said Zahar. “He is not allowed to return to Palestinian areas that Hamas controls. If he returns he will face real consequences.”