IDF arrests Iran's Press TV journalist in West Bank, hands her to police, source confirms to 'Post'

The IDF arrested Press TV journalist Naqqa Hamed near Bethlehem in the West Bank on Tuesday, transferring her to Israel Police. An IDF source confirmed the arrest to The Jerusalem Post on Wednesday, contradicting Iranian claims that Shin Bet holds her. Press TV alleges Hamed was targeted in an online smear campaign. The arrest has raised questions about the legal basis and US consular involvement, as Hamed is a Palestinian-American.

The IDF arrested Press TV journalist Naqqa Hamed near Bethlehem in the West Bank on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, and transferred her to Israel Police. An IDF source confirmed the arrest to The Jerusalem Post on Wednesday, September 16. Press TV, Iran's state-run English-language outlet, reported that Hamed, a Palestinian-American correspondent, and a camera crew were stopped at a checkpoint by Israeli forces, who allegedly searched them before arresting Hamed. Her cameraman was released. The IDF source stated Hamed was transferred to Israel Police, not to Shin Bet, contradicting Iranian allegations. Press TV claims Hamed was subjected to an online smear campaign before her arrest, with critics questioning how she could work for the Iranian outlet in Area B of the West Bank without being arrested. The outlet accused those questioning Hamed of attempting to exert psychological and media pressure to obstruct its reporting. Press TV also claimed Hamed had previously clashed with Israeli forces while reporting in Kalandiya.