Two French journalists still trapped in besieged Syrian city

Although British journalist Paul Conroy and Spanish journalist Javier Espinosa have safely reached Lebanon, French journalists Edith Bouvier and William Daniels are still trapped in the Syrian city of Homs, where they have been since 22 February. Reporters Without Borders is becoming increasingly concerned for their safety, because of the constant bombardments and fighting, and because Bouvier is injured. Bouvier and Daniels have made no direct public statements since the video that was released on 23 February. Their silence is disturbing and, as it leaves considerable room for rumour, caution is required. The statements that news media and politicians have attributed to Bouvier and Daniels in the past 36 hours, which cannot be verified, could jeopardize their safety and the success of the negotiations aimed at securing their evacuation. Bouvier’s situation is above all a medical one. She needs to be transported to a secure location in order to be operated on. But Daniels must not be forgotten. From the outset, he chose to stay with Bouvier although he was not injured. It is thanks to him that we have so far been able to obtain news. The two went to Syria together and they will return together. The delicacy of the situation demands the utmost discretion. We appeal to everyone to be responsible.