Hamas 'target journalists' in Gaza

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) condemned the decision and described it as an “inexcusable intrusion" in the internal affairs of Palestinian journalists.

Jim Boumelha, the IFJ President, said: "The action by the Hamas government is a violation of journalists' rights

"We join our affiliate the Palestinian Journalists' Syndicate in their strong protest and we support their demand for an investigation into this action."

He added: "It is impossible not to conclude that Hamas authorities are targeting journalists who wish to promote solidarity and unity.

"It is another example of Hamas intolerance in the Gaza Strip which has seen other actions to restrict media freedoms, including the closure of several media and detentions of tens of journalists."

Fatah, which dominates the Palestinian Authority, rivals Hamas for control in the area.

As the peace talks between Israel and the Palestinian Authority began in September, Hamas terrorists killed four Israeli civilians in a drive-by shooting.

In June, armed assailants vandalised a United Nations children’s summer camp in central Gaza.