Following on from this posting, Reuters has gone public and made a stand on the issue of the safety of journalists in Iraq and other hostile environments.

Reuters' stance is brave and deserves the support of all major news organisations.

David Schlesinger, Reuters Global Managing Editor, says:
"For several months, Reuters has patiently and cooperatively attempted to work with the government to resolve....serious issues relating to the safety of journalists in areas of military conflict. Unfortunately no progress has been made. Immediate action is necessary to address these issues.

"...The safety of journalists in Iraq is not improving. The detention and mistreatment of our staff combined with the military's highly charged statements have only served to raise the risks for all journalists working in Iraq. We think it absolutely necessary that this be addressed."

Pentagon -- it's over to you.