Arrest of Egyptian journalist Lina Attalah

Lina Attalah, an Egyptian journalist and director of the independent media outlet Mada Masr, was arrested in Cairo on Tuesday after a summary court hearing. The court ordered the closure of Mada Masr’s website and fined Attalah around 850 euros for "operating without a license."

Court proceedings and detention

During the court session, security personnel surrounded Attalah, lifted her from the ground, and escorted her out of the courtroom. Hossam Bahgat, director of the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR), who was present, noted that the judge made his decision amid shouts and protests from defense lawyers.

Context of repression against media

Human rights organizations view this trial as a significant escalation in the repression of press freedom in Egypt. It follows the recent arrest of journalists from the fact-checking platform Matsadaash, who were accused of spreading "false information" and having ties to the Muslim Brotherhood, a common charge against critical media outlets.

History of targeting Mada Masr

This is the sixth case targeting Lina Attalah and Mada Masr in six years, but none had previously led to a trial. According to EIPR, Egypt currently holds 26 journalists in custody due to their work.

Impact on international event

Lina Attalah was scheduled to participate in a masterclass titled Arab Spring, fifteen years later as part of the Averroes New Meetings in Marseille. The event, running from October 28th to November 1st under the theme "Cross / Free," condemned her arrest and vowed to highlight her case.

Support from international media

The Lebanese daily newspaper L'Orient-Le Jour, a partner of the Averroes New Meetings, also expressed support for Attalah, underscoring international concern over the situation of journalists in Egypt.