DHAKA: Syrian rebel leaders said they would do all they could to protect journalists but were hampered by infighting, after international news organisations complained kidnappings were preventing full media coverage of the civil war.

In a letter over the weekend, the western-backed Supreme Military Council (SMC), which is in charge of the rebel Free Syrian Army (FSA), said it would seek to free all journalists who have been abducted.

At least 30 journalists are estimated by media organisations to be being held.

The SMC is the main body representing moderate rebel fighters but it has no sway over extremist groups suspected of carrying out abductions.

‘It is imperative that we reiterate that the FSA, along with all of its units and brigades, will do its utmost to protect and support journalists in order that they can fulfil their vital work,’ a letter from the SMC said, reports The Jerusalem Post.

BDST: 1901 HRS, DEC 15, 2013
Edited by: Robab Rosan, Current Affairs Editor