Finally, some good news from the Middle East:
The BBC is reporting that Alan Johnston, its Gaza correspondent who was taken hostage nearly four months ago, has been released to the Hamas government. He is, apparently, tired but in good health.
I think it’s fair to say that this must be a huge relief to Mr Johnston, his family, friends and colleagues, and to the millions of people around the world who have campaigned for his release. I look forward to seeing him back at work soon…
I’ve blogged before about how important I consider it to be that journalists are allowed to carry out their work unencumbered, wherever they are in the world. This shows that the Palestinian authorities, whatever their other problems, also believe in that crucial concept. Thank goodness.
[Image via CNN]