Release of journalist Iyad Sharabji after arrest that sparked widespread criticism in Syria

The Syrian authorities released journalist Iyad Sharabji on Monday after detaining him over a post on "Facebook," which sparked a wave of criticism among journalists and activists who believed the arrest was politically motivated due to his opposition stance.

During his detention, the Syrian Journalists Association emphasized the need to protect freedom of expression and ensure that journalists are not prosecuted for their professional opinions.

Sharabji, who holds American citizenship and works at Al Jazeera's office in Washington, clarified after his release that his detention could have continued had it not been for his legal confrontation with the public prosecutor, affirming that old laws are still being used to govern the country.

The authorities had charged him with several accusations, including "stirring sectarian tensions," while he faced a campaign of incitement and threats on social media.

The case dates back to statements he made months ago regarding Idlib, where he published a video criticizing the sectarian environment that a whole generation has grown up in there, later clarifying that his words were misunderstood and that he aimed to highlight the effects of war on society.

Sharabji is known for his opposition to Bashar al-Assad's regime and his courage in criticizing the new authorities, emphasizing the need to build a state that includes all Syrians away from divisions.