Journalists warned to get out of Afghanistan

AUSTRALIAN journalists in Afghanistan have been targeted by terrorists and were warned yesterday by the Federal Government to consider leaving the country.

“Credible reports suggest terrorists may be targeting journalists, including Australians, in Afghanistan,” an updated travel advisory from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade says.

“We continue to advise Australians not to travel to Afghanistan. If you are [there], you should consider departing.”

The advisory had previously warned of the continuing strong threat of kidnapping against Westerners, including journalists and those working for non-government and international organisations.

The department yesterday contacted senior management at large Australian media outlets to advise them of the threats and is seeking to contact freelance journalists in Afghanistan. At least four journalists have been killed there in the past year.

Jonathan Pearlman

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